STARR, RICHARD M., University of California Sea Grant Program, Moss Landing, CA; JOHN N. HEINE, Moss Landing Marine Labs, Moss Landing, CA; and GREGOR M. CAILLIET, Moss Landing Marine Labs, Moss Landing, CA

Abstract: The Influence of Submarine Canyon Morphology on the Distribution and Movements of Marine Fishes

Monterey Bay contains a wide diversity of marine fishes. Although the diversity of fishes is great, the marine species inhabiting Monterey Bay are often concentrated in a few locations. Submarine canyons contain a variety of habitats that harbor large numbers of species. In the past several years, we have placed sonic tags in marine species to evaluate their movements relative to the morphology of submarine canyons. We first identify suitable fish habitat on canyon walls using bathymetric and habitat information, then we surgically implant sonic tags in fish. An array of receivers is placed along the walls of the canyon to record movements of tagged fish for a three to four month period. Results indicate that the morphology of the canyon influences the distribution and movements of several species of marine fishes.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90920©1999 AAPG Pacific Section Meeting, Monterey, California