Introduction
Lake Superior is the largest and deepest of the Great Lakes, and is home to an abundance of different fish species. Many of these species are native, some are invasive, and some have been introduced, but all of them are part of the unique ecosystem of the lake. Here is an overview of the different species of fish in the lake and their importance to the environment.
Native Fish of Lake Superior
The majority of the fish in Lake Superior are native species. These fish including species such as Lake Whitefish, Lake Trout, Ciscoes, Great Lakes Salmon, and Longnose Suckers. The presence of these native species is vital to the health of the lake, as they provide food and habitat for other animals. The native species also play a role in controlling invasive species, providing refuge for prey fish and other species, and regulating the food web.
Invasive Fish of Lake Superior
Invasives species can be problematic in any body of water, and Lake Superior is no exception. The most common invasives in the lake are Round Goby, Sea Lamprey, and Alewife. The Round Goby is the most abundant of the invaders, having been introduced to the lake from the Caspian Sea via ballast water from ships. The Sea Lamprey is a parasitic species that attaches itself to native fish, while the Alewife is an open water species of baitfish with no natural predators in the lake.
Introduced Fish of Lake Superior
There are also several species of fish that have been introduced to the lake, either intentionally or accidentally. These species include Rainbow Smelt, Chinook Salmon, Brown Trout, Walleye, and Coho Salmon. The Rainbow Smelt was intentionally introduced in the 1920s to provide a food source for game fish, while the Chinook and Coho Salmon were introduced in the 1960s to help provide food and habitat for native species. The Brown Trout and Walleye were also introduced to increase fishing opportunities.
The Importance of Fish in Lake Superior
Fish play an important role in Lake Superior, providing food, habitat, and recreation for locals and visitors alike. Fish provide food for other animals, such as otters, ospreys, and bald eagles, while also helping to control the population of invasive species. Fishing is also a popular activity in the lake, providing food and recreation for people in the region.
Management and Conservation of Fish in Lake Superior
The management and conservation of the fish in Lake Superior is of utmost importance. To this end, the government has implemented several conservation measures, such as regulating fishing, controlling invasive species, and protecting spawning areas. These measures have helped to ensure that the fish populations remain healthy and diverse.
Conclusion
Lake Superior is home to an abundance of different fish species, both native and non-native. These fish are essential to the lake’s ecosystem and provide vital food, habitat, and recreation. Taking care to manage and conserve the fish populations is essential to the health of the lake and contributes to the overall enjoyment of its use.
