Age and Growth of Brook Trout in Southern Appalachian Streams
Samples of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) were collected by electrofishing in 28 streams in 5 southeastern states between June 1977 and March 1978. Whole and sectioned otoliths were used to estimate age and the annual growth increments of 998 fish. General compliance with 4 criteria suggested validity of the otolith ageing method. Although 1 fish was age X, 98% were age III or younger. Brook trout from all streams grew the most in length during their first year. Second-year growth represented 28% (median) of median first-year growth. Growth of males and females did not differ...
