Title

Gravel-lined upstream fish passes: Construction guide

Authors

J AT Boubee

Publication Date

1995

Notes

Prepared for the Department of Conservation

Keywords

upstream, New Zealand, eels, fish population, life cycle, upstream migration, migration, juvenile, streams

Report number

Consultancy Report DOC003

Publication place

Hamilton, New Zealand

Publisher

NIWA

Abstract

None supplied. Introduction: Continuing pressures on many of New Zealand's native freshwater fish species has seen a substantial decline in their numbers. This decline has serious implications for New Zealand, both economically and ecologically. Several of the freshwater species (primarily eels and whitebait) generate sizeable revenue, while any decline in the fish populations, which are part of our natural heritage, affects the richness and diversity of New Zealand's fauna. Most of New Zealand's native freshwater fish are diadromous; this is they are obliged to migrate between the sea and freshwater to complete their life cycles. Many make extensive upstream migration as juveniles. These young fish are generally poor swimmers who make use of low-velocity zones on the edges or bottom of rivers and streams to make their way upstream. Some species have evolved climbing abilities that enable them to surmount waterfalls and rapids. The gravel-lined fish pass described in this guide capitalises on this behaviour.

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