The Homogenizing of Minnesota Lake Fish Assemblages

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Abstract
The loss of unique fish assemblages in Minnesota lakes was evaluated by comparing species presence in historical and most-recent surveys of both stocked and unstocked lakes. Fish stocking resulted in greater species richness but reduced fish assemblage diversity among stocked lakes. No significant changes occurred among unstocked lakes. Short-term goals of additional fishing opportunities were partially achieved through stocking by creating more opportunities to fish for walleye in more lakes. However, the resulting loss of fish assemblage diversity within a local management area was apparently not considered. Fisheries managers should consider the potential for loss of community diversity and preserve unique fish communities where they still exist.

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