The Comparative Effects of a Thermal Gradient on the Age and Growth Characteristics of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus Nigricans), and Atlantic Cod (Gadus Morhua)

<p>Thermal gradients impact fishes differently, due to variations in ecological niches and physiological adaptations. I assessed the effects of temperature on Largemouth Bass (Micropterus nigricans) and Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) using data from peer-reviewed journals, state records, and fisheries agencies. For Largemouth Bass, I analyzed the relationships between air temperature (MAT_min°C, MAT24hr°C, and MAT_max°C), and growth parameters including maximum length and weight, growth rate (K), longevity, and total length-at-ages 3, 5, and 8 years (TLAge_3,5,8), using least squares regression. Significant correlations were found between all temperature and growth metrics. Positive correlations were found between the thermal indices and TLAge_3,5,8, growth rate, and maximum size but negative relationships were found between the thermal indices and longevity. In Atlantic Cod, analyses were limited by insufficient data on older age classes, geographic coverage, and environmental variables. These limitations prevented analyses and highlighted the need for management strategies that protect older individuals.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Biology

Year

2025

Author dc:creator

• Hall, Whitney

Contributors dc:contributor

• Dr. Michael Newbrey
• Dr. Jennifer Newnrey
• Ashley Desensi

• Largemouth Bass
• Micropterus nigricans
• Atlantic Cod
• Gadus morhua
• Thermal Gradients
• Climate Change
• Longevity
• Growth Rate
• Aquaculture and Fisheries
• Biology

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://csuepress.columbusstate.edu/theses_dissertations/685

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:csuepress.columbusstate.edu:theses_dissertations-1687