Effect Of Temperature On Walleye Egg Hatch Rate

This study was conducted to determine if water temperature increases during the walleye (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum) spawning period reduced egg hatch rate and if water temperature manipulation during egg fertilization would increase hatch rate. Walleye eggs were subjected, before and during fertilization, to 1 of 3 treatments involving water temperatures above and below 12 C. Water temperatures above 12 C were found to reduce hatch rates. Stripping and fertilizing eggs collected from reservoir water temperatures above 12 C into water chilled to 7.2 C significantly increased hatch rates. Use of this technique could improve walleye culture and management operations in some southern regions.