A Comparison in Health of Two Largemouth Bass Populations at

Bridgestone/Firestone WMA

By: Joseph Zimmerman

Tennessee Technological University

Cookeville, TN 38505

Introduction

• Bridgestone/Firestone Wildlife Management Area

• Two ponds (2.5 hectares)

• Pond 2 population appears stunted (Simpson 2004)

Objective/Hypothesis Statement

• The objective of the research is to determine if the largemouth bass population in pond 2 is less healthy than the population in Pond 1.

• Hypothesis-The largemouth bass populations in Pond 1 will have higher relative weights than the population in Pond 2.

Methods and Materials2 minutes

• 10 minute sample with Electro-fishing boat• Accu-weigh scale and Wildcoe measuring board • Use lengths and weights to determine relative

weight for each fish (condition of fish/certain water body/regional standards)

• Plot the relative weights on a graph to determine the overall condition of the fish populations

-Over 100-problem with surplus prey -Under 100-problem with forage shortage -Near 100-good condition

Results

• Pond 2- low relative weights

• Pond 1- good relative weights

Relative Weight of Micropterus salmoides at Bridgestone/Firestone WMA

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Wr

Pond 1 Pond 2

Discussion

• Pond 1-fertilized fields=increased biomass

• Pond 2-no fertilized fields=decreased biomass (clear water)

• Possible solutions:

1. Fertilize and Lime (phytoplankton growth)

2. Rotate Free Fishing Day between ponds

Questions?