Use of a mechanistic growth model in fish habitat restoration: juvenile Chinook salmon and steelhead as a test case

摘要: Abstract Few studies of in-stream habitat restoration effectiveness address whether traits that affect fitness individuals (e.g., growth) are altered by restoring habitat. We used mark-recapture to measure growth sub-yearling Chinook salmon and steelhead in restored unrestored the Entiat River, Washington, USA. In each five sampling years (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2016), we compared rates between types, using a mechanistic model which fit our data Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) techniques. Modeling strategies differed for two species: For Chinook, patterns recaptured 15-60 d with those not regardless initial at marking. steelhead, had enough fish type use directly compare habitats. juveniles remaining reached larger size earlier season than transient all study combined, but this pattern varied slightly among years. Steelhead showed more rapid 2009 2010 only, were explain these context spatio-temporal partitioning Despite this, there was no case where performed better overall Size-corrected raw (mm · day−1) supported rate higher same as corresponding parameter. Finally, relative density species found did always correspond observed differences. abundance year, parameter differences 2012 or 2016. both favored 2009, whereas when difference Thus, measurement complements efficacy because it can prevent overconfidence detect benefits inconclusive.