Diet Shifts and Spatial Growth Variation of Round Goby in Schoharie Creek, NY

Authors: Thomas Sadekoski, Charles Cotton

SUNY Campus: SUNY Cobleskill

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 30

Timeslot: Session B 10:15-11:15 AM

Abstract: Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus), an invasive benthic fish species, has adversely affected aquatic ecosystems in North America since its introduction in the 1990s. Introduced through ballast water, Round Goby initially established populations in the Great Lakes before spreading to other watersheds, including the Mohawk River watershed in New York, where it was first recorded in 2014. This study investigates diet composition and spatial differences in the age of Round Goby in Schoharie Creek, the largest tributary to the Mohawk River. Gut content analysis reveals a dietary shift between sites, with downstream individuals primarily consuming Dreissenid mussels, while upstream individuals rely on non-shelled invertebrates like Chironomids. Growth models suggest that Round Goby grow faster at upstream locations dominated by Chironomid diets compared to those near the Mohawk River confluence, where Dreissenid mussels are more prevalent. The ability of Round Goby to exploit varied food resources demonstrates their adaptability and potential to thrive in diverse habitats. The expansion of Round Goby into Schoharie Creek raises significant ecological concerns, particularly regarding resource competition and the potential displacement of native species. Understanding habitat preferences and dietary patterns is critical for developing effective management strategies to mitigate the effect of Round Goby on native ecosystems.