Factors affecting the distribution of juvenile estuarine and inshore fish

摘要: The differential distributions of juveniles and adults 25 species teleost were investigated compared from four habitat types in sub-tropical Moreton Bay, Queensland. aim the study was to identify factors influencing distribution juveniles, particularly which enter estuaries. following habitats sampled: a shallow, sheltered tidal estuary (Caboolture); exposed bay with muddy substrates (Deception Bay); an area sandy seagrass (Toorbol Point) oceanic site (Kooringal). Data on diet, spawning seasons recruitment periods fry are presented together measurements salinity, temperature turbidity. Species entering estuaries recruited mainly summer (rainy season). possible preference for calm water, roles food predation pressure, effects turbidity discussed relation biology fish. Salinity probably not important most juvenile suitable predators vary according species. Although all studied preferred shallow case those estuaries, single factor. Juveniles same occurred both Deception Bay where abiotic biotic other than different. During summer, gradients extended east west highest turbidities Caboolture Bay. In winter, throughout low relatively uniform. At this time many ‘clear water’ influence high fish may be linked reduced pressure perhaps supply water. Turbidity aid locating estuarine nursery grounds. It is apparent however, that attracted per se but turbid areas.