Document Type
Article
Abstract
Walleye Sander vitreus and Sauger Sander canadensis exist in most river and lake systems across the state of Minnesota and have historically been a highly sought-after species. Variable water temperatures play a significant role in the growth of cold-blooded organisms such as walleye and sauger. Therefore, the objective of this study is to test for a relationship between growing degree days (GDD) and the growth of walleye and sauger from Lake Pepin, Leech Lake, and Lake of the Woods. Data for growth and age was readily available and was sourced from MN DNR lake survey database from 2006 to 2023. Growing degree data was sourced from Weather Underground. A regression test was performed on the data, and Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) scores were generated. This study conducted four regressions tests on the data set. There is a clear upward trend showing a positive correlation between GDD and growth, indicating that as GDD increases so will growth. Additionally, a consistent correlation between growth and year was observed with Leech Lake and Lake of the Woods following a clear trend overtime, while Lake Pepin differed. Growing degree days and year indicated a correlation between Leech Lake and Lake of the Woods while Lake Pepin again differed. These findings highlight a significant relationship between both GDD and year, and growth and year. This variation may also be influenced by several factors such as forage species, nutrient loading, and geographic location.
Publication Date
2025
Recommended Citation
Hoover, Ben, "Growing Degree Days Compared to Growth of Walleye and Sauger From Different Systems" (2025). Journal of Earth and Life Science. 81.
https://pines.bemidjistate.edu/j-earth-life-sci/81
Comments
Faculty sponsor: Dr. Andrew Hafs, Department of Biology, Aquatic Biology Program