Amélie Rossi
University of Corsica Pasquale Paoli, France
Title: Methodology for the behavioral study of fish post-larvae of the Corsican coastline (east coast: Bastia)
Biography
Biography: Amélie Rossi
Abstract
The pelagic larval phase is a decisive step in the life history of coastal fish. This phase is considered as a milestone for the larval dispersal. Indeed, it is usually the only recruitment possibility for coastal species, because adult individuals are sedentary. This stage of fish life is not only crucial for the recruitment of individuals but also for structure and population dynamics. Therefore, it represents a real interest for marine biology and ecology research in a perspective of fundamental knowledge but especially for the management of fish resources. The work presented here is subject to a behavioral study on post-larvae of species found on the Corsican coast. The study site is located on the north east Corsican coast (Mediterranean Sea, France), near the urban area of Bastia. This site is considered because it is close to a natural reserve (Biguglia lagoon) and a Natura 2000 area, the "large Posidonia meadow". Samples are caught with non-destructive light traps and this study aims to obtain both, orientation data in the natural environment (in situ) with a tracking device, the DISC (Drifting in situ Chamber), developed by the University of Miami (Rosentiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science) and swimming ability and endurance data in laboratory, with a swimming chamber, developed by Loligo Systems®. The collected data assess post-larval dispersal abilities fished on the Corsican eastern coast. This study comes in support of the work already underway on the subject, including the oceanographic observatory of villefranche-sur-Mer (France).