A biophysical study of connectivity in early life history stages of coastal Newfoundland fishes

This study addresses the biophysical factors that influence population connectivity during the early life history of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in coastal Newfoundland. In Chapter 1, I review how connectivity is regulated by biophysical processes and should be a central consideration in spatially-oriented management and conservation. The second chapter illustrates connectivity associated with a known source of pelagic eggs (Smith Sound). Dispersal patterns did not vary over the spring and summer period of egg production, with a net export estimated at 13%/day. Data suggests that connectivity is limited to Trinity Bay. The final chapter addresses larval behavioural contributions to connectivity. Concomitant increase in spatial heterogeneity with the transition to an inertial swimming environment and spatial association with upstream optimal nursery habitats suggest that swimming influences dispersal and connectivity. This study demonstrates how a better understanding of connectivity is better achieved through synergistic study of biophysical interactions.