On Wed, 04 May 2005 21:21:35 GMT, "Doug Kanter"
wrote:

"John H" wrote in message
.. .


Over fishing for menhaden is affecting the water quality and other species
of
fish in the bay. The government will probably put more restrictions on
sport
fishermen and say they've done a good job.

How does it affect water quality?


From: http://www.chesbay.org/forageFish/menhaden.asp

"Atlantic menhaden are the most important and one of the most abundant fish
species in the Chesapeake Bay. During summer months, these fish swim in large
schools and their silvery bodies can often be seen near the water's surface.
Juveniles primarily feed on zooplankton, but adults are mainly herbivores, but
retain the ability to feed on zooplankton. The adults are very adaptable and
will feed on several species of phytoplankton, as well as suspended organic
plant detritus. Atlantic menhaden are an ecologically critical fish species.
They consume and redistribute a significant amount of energy within and between
the Chesapeake Bay and other estuaries, and the coastal ocean. This is due, in
part, to their tremendous numbers, individual growth rate, filter feeding
capacity, and seasonal movements. An adult fish can filter up to a million
gallons of water every 180 days. ***A healthy Atlantic menhaden population has
the potential to consume up to 25% of the Bay's nitrogen in 1-year.*** Menhaden
are also an extremely important prey species for many predatory fish such as
striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, and spanish mackerel. Because or their
schooling behavior, they are also a favorite target for the common loon, herons,
egrets, ospreys, and eagles.
--
John H

"All decisions are the result of binary thinking."