LINKING AQUATIC HABITAT, FRESHWATER FISHES, AND BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATES

The high quality and wide availability of recreational fishing opportunities contribute to Pennsylvania's economy and reflect the high quality of life enjoyed by residents of the Commonwealth. Many land-use and water management activities can have a negative effect on the quality of fish habitat available in Pennsylvania's lakes and streams. It is generally accepted that good habitat is necessary to support productive fish populations. The overall goal of this study is to continue work to understand the relationship between habitat and freshwater fish production and how the relationship is affected by human activity. Results from this research will contribute to the growing knowledge base about the relationship between freshwater fish and benthic macroinvertebrates and the habitat quality where they are found and will help to shape guidelines for the protection and restoration of aquatic habitats for state and federal agencies charged with overseeing the restoration of fish habitat.