Seasonal occurrence and movement patterns of Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) in Carmel Bay, California

M.S. Thesis Project:   

Lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus) comprise a major component of recreational and commercial fisheries along the west coast of North America, yet populations have fluctuated dramatically in recent years. For fisheries managers, knowing how lingcod move over space and time will be useful for creating stock models, designing marine protected areas, and deciding when and where seasonal fishery closures should occur. Identifying movement patterns also can aid in understanding ecological processes such as predation, competition, tropic interactions, and habitat associations.

I am investigating how movement patterns of lingcod vary over daily to monthly time scales in the nearshore environment. Specifically, I am interested in determining whether lingcod are residents of Carmel Bay throughout the year or seasonal visitors. I will also ascertain if movements vary among different size classes and sexes, and how movement patterns relate to physical parameters in the environment.

Advisor: Dr. Richard Starr, Dr. Gregor Cailliet
Funding: Padi Foundation #274