Using Otolith Microchemistry to Determine Natal Origin of Black Sea Bass off the Coast of Maine

ObjectiveA recent expansion of the northern stock of Black Sea Bass Centropristis striata into the northern Gulf of Maine raises questions about this species' movement and population dynamics in this region. Determining the origin of these fish is essential, as dramatic changes in migration patterns or current population boundaries could have profound effects on stock assessment estimates and subsequent management regulations.MethodsIn this study, we measured otolith core concentrations of stable isotopes (delta 18O, delta 13C) and trace element:calcium ratios (Mg:Ca, Mn:Ca, Cu:Ca, Zn:Ca, Ba:Ca, Sr:Ca) to assess the natal origin of Black Sea Bass that were caught off the coast of Maine. Spawning condition adults from southern New England (SNE) and the mid-Atlantic Bight (MAB) were used to characterize the chemical fingerprint of these known spawning regions.ResultUnique chemical fingerprints were identified for fish from SNE and the MAB, with high reclassification success using random forest analysis (16% error rate). The classification of Black Sea Bass of unknown origin that were caught in Maine waters indicated that 85% of the samples matched to SNE and 13% to the MAB, whereas one sample remained unclassified.ConclusionResults from this study support the current management population separation of the northern stock of Black Sea Bass between SNE and the MAB and lends additional information to the understanding of this species' movement into the northern Gulf of Maine. As fish stocks around the world continue to shift into new regions due to climate change, knowledge of their natal origin will be critical to long-term sustainable management of this species. Determining which population Black Sea Bass located in Maine came from helps scientists understand how these fish migrated there, their potential for success, and their expected growth and maturity. If this species becomes more abundant in the region, this information could help inform regulation surrounding conservation and fishing practices.Impact statement