MATOS - Mid-Atlantic Acoustic Telemetry Observation System

Project Title: Tracking seasonal movements of anadromous fishes in the Saco River system using acoustic telemetry

MATOS Project Code: UNESACOBAY

Data Type: Data

Project Duration: June 2022 - on-going

Project Description: The Saco River Estuary support several species of migratory fishes. The goal of this study is to determine the seasonal movement and habitat use of Striped Bass and Atlantic Sturgeon in the Saco River. Using acoustic telemetry, this study established a network of passive receivers to better understand Striped Bass seasonal movements in the Saco River, and throughout their coastal migratory range. The Gulf of Maine Distinct Population Segment of Atlantic Sturgeon are listed as threatened. Atlantic Sturgeon utilize the Saco River as a feeding ground, but move among nearby rivers. Characterizing seasonal presence and connectivity of Atlantic Sturgeon among Maine Rivers, is essential to better understand dynamics of threatened populations. Fish are internally tagged with V13 or V16 acoustic tag. Receivers are located throughout the Saco River and Saco Bay and deployed from June to November.

Objectives:

Seasonal habitat use and fish residency

Principal Investigator:	John Mohan (University of New England)
Email:	john.austin.mohan@gmail.com

Point of Contact:	John Mohan
Email:	john.austin.mohan@gmail.com

Collaborators:

Gayle Zydlewski (UMaine)
Micah Kieffer (USGS)
Matthew Davis (ME DMR)

Participating Organizations:

Maine DMR
USGS
University of Maine

UNE Saco River Estuary