Stock Concept Related to Gulf Coast States Striped Bass Management
Gulf Coast striped bass (Marone saxatilis) represent a race of striped bass that differ phenotypically and probably genotypically, behave as a cohesive unit and were once spatially separated from other stocks. The significance of discrete spawning stocks of striped bass is discussed. Evidence for the stock concept is reviewed and discussed in relation to maintenance of genetic diversity in fish populations. Caution is urged that stocks, designated for release into foreign waters, be carefully evaluated with respect to their potential genetic impact on native populations.
