2025
Lewandoski, S.A., Robinson, K.F., Brendan, T.O., Booth R., Hrodey, P., Hume, J.B., Pratt, T.C., Scott, A.M., Symbal, M., Wagner, C.M., Johnson, N.S.
Decision analysis of integrated pest management: a case study on invasive sea lamprey in the Great Lakes Basin Journal Article
In: Journal of Environmental Management, vol. 373, no. 12366, 2025.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: control, model, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {Decision analysis of integrated pest management: a case study on invasive sea lamprey in the Great Lakes Basin},
author = {Lewandoski, S.A., Robinson, K.F., Brendan, T.O., Booth R., Hrodey, P., Hume, J.B., Pratt, T.C., Scott, A.M., Symbal, M., Wagner, C.M., Johnson, N.S. },
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.123666},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-01-01},
urldate = {2025-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Environmental Management},
volume = {373},
number = {12366},
abstract = {Integrated Pest Management (IPM) provides a powerful framework for addressing threats to human well-being
caused by nuisance species including invasives. We examined the hypothesis that adaptive management could
erode barriers to IPM implementation by developing a decision-analytic adaptive management framework for
invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) IPM in the Laurentian Great Lakes of North America. The framework
addressed objectives associated with coordinating multiple sea lamprey control actions at the regional scale and
objectives associated with internal validity of control actions. We reduced the scope of possible management
actions by orders of magnitude to the set of 6432 alternatives expected to be both socially acceptable and
technically feasible. Using utility theory, we identified the management actions that optimized expected utility
for all possible objective weighting schemes that considered tradeoffs between maximizing learning about
control tactic efficacy and minimizing cost to the IPM program. Sensitivity analyses revealed that assumptions
about the social acceptability of deploying electric weirs to control invasive sea lamprey influenced selection of
the optimal control action, suggesting that resolving this source of uncertainty through iterative application of
the framework may lead to improved sea lamprey control outcomes. Overall, we found that adaptive management
enabled learning processes useful for overcoming barriers to IPM of invasive sea lamprey. It formalized
learning about sea lamprey control tactic efficacy as an objective of the IPM institution, questioned previously
held assumptions about what constitutes a viable control strategy, and enabled a management experiment with
temporal and spatial replication.},
keywords = {control, model, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) provides a powerful framework for addressing threats to human well-being
caused by nuisance species including invasives. We examined the hypothesis that adaptive management could
erode barriers to IPM implementation by developing a decision-analytic adaptive management framework for
invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) IPM in the Laurentian Great Lakes of North America. The framework
addressed objectives associated with coordinating multiple sea lamprey control actions at the regional scale and
objectives associated with internal validity of control actions. We reduced the scope of possible management
actions by orders of magnitude to the set of 6432 alternatives expected to be both socially acceptable and
technically feasible. Using utility theory, we identified the management actions that optimized expected utility
for all possible objective weighting schemes that considered tradeoffs between maximizing learning about
control tactic efficacy and minimizing cost to the IPM program. Sensitivity analyses revealed that assumptions
about the social acceptability of deploying electric weirs to control invasive sea lamprey influenced selection of
the optimal control action, suggesting that resolving this source of uncertainty through iterative application of
the framework may lead to improved sea lamprey control outcomes. Overall, we found that adaptive management
enabled learning processes useful for overcoming barriers to IPM of invasive sea lamprey. It formalized
learning about sea lamprey control tactic efficacy as an objective of the IPM institution, questioned previously
held assumptions about what constitutes a viable control strategy, and enabled a management experiment with
temporal and spatial replication.
caused by nuisance species including invasives. We examined the hypothesis that adaptive management could
erode barriers to IPM implementation by developing a decision-analytic adaptive management framework for
invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) IPM in the Laurentian Great Lakes of North America. The framework
addressed objectives associated with coordinating multiple sea lamprey control actions at the regional scale and
objectives associated with internal validity of control actions. We reduced the scope of possible management
actions by orders of magnitude to the set of 6432 alternatives expected to be both socially acceptable and
technically feasible. Using utility theory, we identified the management actions that optimized expected utility
for all possible objective weighting schemes that considered tradeoffs between maximizing learning about
control tactic efficacy and minimizing cost to the IPM program. Sensitivity analyses revealed that assumptions
about the social acceptability of deploying electric weirs to control invasive sea lamprey influenced selection of
the optimal control action, suggesting that resolving this source of uncertainty through iterative application of
the framework may lead to improved sea lamprey control outcomes. Overall, we found that adaptive management
enabled learning processes useful for overcoming barriers to IPM of invasive sea lamprey. It formalized
learning about sea lamprey control tactic efficacy as an objective of the IPM institution, questioned previously
held assumptions about what constitutes a viable control strategy, and enabled a management experiment with
temporal and spatial replication.
2024
Luhring, T., Hume, J.B., Wagner, C.M.
Predation risk creates unexpected migration decisions in a non-homing semelparous fish Journal Article
In: Animal Behaviour, 2024.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, control, migration, sea lamprey, semiochemical, trap
@article{nokey,
title = {Predation risk creates unexpected migration decisions in a non-homing semelparous fish},
author = {Luhring, T., Hume, J.B., Wagner, C.M.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2024.10.027},
year = {2024},
date = {2024-12-01},
urldate = {2024-12-01},
journal = {Animal Behaviour},
abstract = {Predation risk and migration are major forces shaping animal behaviour and fitness. Migratory animals are often under incredible energy and time constraints, yet predation risk is present during many natural migrations. Manipulating risk landscapes of migrating animals in natural settings offers an especially powerful way to assess how the perception of multiple chemical cues across large scales affects migratory behaviour and decision-making processes. In this study, we presented 432 upstream migrating sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus (a nonhoming semelparous fish) with a choice between two streams that differed in the presence or absence of an alarm cue, while chemical cues associated with suitable breeding conditions were present in each stream (larvae from previous generations). Three-quarters of them were detected at the confluence 3.3 km upstream on their night of release and during alarm cue exposure hours. Sea lamprey preferred the warmer of the two stream branches upstream of the confluence on nights when alarm cue was absent. Unexpectedly, the presence of alarm cue in either stream branch led to a preference for the branch upstream of the deeper portion of the main channel, independent of temperature differences between the streams. These results demonstrate that migratory decisions by sea lamprey at key points in their migration can be altered by the presence of predation risk. However, physical stream properties such as depth can potentially alter the perceived risk of predation and antipredator responses.},
keywords = {alarm cue, control, migration, sea lamprey, semiochemical, trap},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Predation risk and migration are major forces shaping animal behaviour and fitness. Migratory animals are often under incredible energy and time constraints, yet predation risk is present during many natural migrations. Manipulating risk landscapes of migrating animals in natural settings offers an especially powerful way to assess how the perception of multiple chemical cues across large scales affects migratory behaviour and decision-making processes. In this study, we presented 432 upstream migrating sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus (a nonhoming semelparous fish) with a choice between two streams that differed in the presence or absence of an alarm cue, while chemical cues associated with suitable breeding conditions were present in each stream (larvae from previous generations). Three-quarters of them were detected at the confluence 3.3 km upstream on their night of release and during alarm cue exposure hours. Sea lamprey preferred the warmer of the two stream branches upstream of the confluence on nights when alarm cue was absent. Unexpectedly, the presence of alarm cue in either stream branch led to a preference for the branch upstream of the deeper portion of the main channel, independent of temperature differences between the streams. These results demonstrate that migratory decisions by sea lamprey at key points in their migration can be altered by the presence of predation risk. However, physical stream properties such as depth can potentially alter the perceived risk of predation and antipredator responses.
Hume, J.B., Bennis, S., Bruning, T., Docker, M.F., Good, S., Lampman, R., Rinchard, J., Searcy, T., Wilkie, M.P., Johnson, N.S.
Evaluation of larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus growth in the laboratory: influence of temperature and diet Journal Article
In: Aquaculture Research, vol. 2024, no. 5547340, 2024.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: aquaculture, growth, management, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {Evaluation of larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus growth in the laboratory: influence of temperature and diet},
author = {Hume, J.B., Bennis, S., Bruning, T., Docker, M.F., Good, S., Lampman, R., Rinchard, J., Searcy, T., Wilkie, M.P., Johnson, N.S.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/5547340},
year = {2024},
date = {2024-02-02},
urldate = {2024-02-02},
journal = {Aquaculture Research},
volume = {2024},
number = {5547340},
abstract = {Conservation aquaculture provides a means for promoting environmental stewardship, useful both in the context of restoring
native species and limiting the production of invasive species. Aquaculture of lampreys is a relatively recent endeavor aimed
primarily at producing animals to support the restoration of declining native populations. However, in the Laurentian Great Lakes,
where sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus are invasive, the ability to acquire a reliable source of certain life stages would be a
significant benefit to those controlling their populations and studying the species. Here, we apply methodologies developed for
Pacific lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus restoration to investigate the feasibility of rearing larval sea lamprey under laboratory
conditions. In two experiments lasting 3 and 9 months, we tested the effects of different dietary sources and water temperature
(ambient and controlled) on the survival and growth of wild-caught larvae. Rearing conditions had no effect on mortality, as larval
survival was 100% in both experiments. Growth was significantly affected by water temperature, with the highest average daily
growth rates observed at 22 and 15°C (0.14 mm day−1
) and lowest at 8°C (0.06 mm day−1
). Diets of yeast alone (0.19 and 0.21 g L−1
)
performed better than those comprising a mixture of yeast and other material when fed 3 times weekly (rice flour, wheat flour, fish
meal; 0.19 and 0.32 g L−1
). Averaged across the three constant temperatures (8, 15, and 22°C), larvae fed on yeast grew 0.13 mm day−1
and 0.01 g day−1
, whereas on yeast + fish meal, they grew 0.09 mm day−1 and 0.01 g day−1
. At ambient temperature (4–20°C), larvae
fed on yeast grew 0.15 mm day−1 and 0.01 g day−1
, whereas those fed on yeast + wheat flour grew 0.13 mm day−1 and 0.008 g day−1
and those fed on yeast + rice flour grew 0.12 mm day−1 and 0.009 g day−1
. An experimental duration of 90 days was sufficient to
detect significant changes to larval sea lamprey growth stemming from temperature variation. Overall, rearing of sea lamprey in
captivity appears feasible at low density (31–32 g m−2 and 17–25 larvae m−2
), but uncertainties remain regarding the most appro-
priate means of providing adequate feed for these fish in high-density conditions.},
keywords = {aquaculture, growth, management, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Conservation aquaculture provides a means for promoting environmental stewardship, useful both in the context of restoring
native species and limiting the production of invasive species. Aquaculture of lampreys is a relatively recent endeavor aimed
primarily at producing animals to support the restoration of declining native populations. However, in the Laurentian Great Lakes,
where sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus are invasive, the ability to acquire a reliable source of certain life stages would be a
significant benefit to those controlling their populations and studying the species. Here, we apply methodologies developed for
Pacific lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus restoration to investigate the feasibility of rearing larval sea lamprey under laboratory
conditions. In two experiments lasting 3 and 9 months, we tested the effects of different dietary sources and water temperature
(ambient and controlled) on the survival and growth of wild-caught larvae. Rearing conditions had no effect on mortality, as larval
survival was 100% in both experiments. Growth was significantly affected by water temperature, with the highest average daily
growth rates observed at 22 and 15°C (0.14 mm day−1
) and lowest at 8°C (0.06 mm day−1
). Diets of yeast alone (0.19 and 0.21 g L−1
)
performed better than those comprising a mixture of yeast and other material when fed 3 times weekly (rice flour, wheat flour, fish
meal; 0.19 and 0.32 g L−1
). Averaged across the three constant temperatures (8, 15, and 22°C), larvae fed on yeast grew 0.13 mm day−1
and 0.01 g day−1
, whereas on yeast + fish meal, they grew 0.09 mm day−1 and 0.01 g day−1
. At ambient temperature (4–20°C), larvae
fed on yeast grew 0.15 mm day−1 and 0.01 g day−1
, whereas those fed on yeast + wheat flour grew 0.13 mm day−1 and 0.008 g day−1
and those fed on yeast + rice flour grew 0.12 mm day−1 and 0.009 g day−1
. An experimental duration of 90 days was sufficient to
detect significant changes to larval sea lamprey growth stemming from temperature variation. Overall, rearing of sea lamprey in
captivity appears feasible at low density (31–32 g m−2 and 17–25 larvae m−2
), but uncertainties remain regarding the most appro-
priate means of providing adequate feed for these fish in high-density conditions.
native species and limiting the production of invasive species. Aquaculture of lampreys is a relatively recent endeavor aimed
primarily at producing animals to support the restoration of declining native populations. However, in the Laurentian Great Lakes,
where sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus are invasive, the ability to acquire a reliable source of certain life stages would be a
significant benefit to those controlling their populations and studying the species. Here, we apply methodologies developed for
Pacific lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus restoration to investigate the feasibility of rearing larval sea lamprey under laboratory
conditions. In two experiments lasting 3 and 9 months, we tested the effects of different dietary sources and water temperature
(ambient and controlled) on the survival and growth of wild-caught larvae. Rearing conditions had no effect on mortality, as larval
survival was 100% in both experiments. Growth was significantly affected by water temperature, with the highest average daily
growth rates observed at 22 and 15°C (0.14 mm day−1
) and lowest at 8°C (0.06 mm day−1
). Diets of yeast alone (0.19 and 0.21 g L−1
)
performed better than those comprising a mixture of yeast and other material when fed 3 times weekly (rice flour, wheat flour, fish
meal; 0.19 and 0.32 g L−1
). Averaged across the three constant temperatures (8, 15, and 22°C), larvae fed on yeast grew 0.13 mm day−1
and 0.01 g day−1
, whereas on yeast + fish meal, they grew 0.09 mm day−1 and 0.01 g day−1
. At ambient temperature (4–20°C), larvae
fed on yeast grew 0.15 mm day−1 and 0.01 g day−1
, whereas those fed on yeast + wheat flour grew 0.13 mm day−1 and 0.008 g day−1
and those fed on yeast + rice flour grew 0.12 mm day−1 and 0.009 g day−1
. An experimental duration of 90 days was sufficient to
detect significant changes to larval sea lamprey growth stemming from temperature variation. Overall, rearing of sea lamprey in
captivity appears feasible at low density (31–32 g m−2 and 17–25 larvae m−2
), but uncertainties remain regarding the most appro-
priate means of providing adequate feed for these fish in high-density conditions.
2021
Docker, M.F., Johnson, N.S., Bravener, G.A., Garroway, C., Hammers, B., Hrodey, P., Hume, J.B., Lewandoski, S., Young, B., Zollweg-Horan, E.C., & Ogden, J.
A review of sea lamprey dispersal and population structure in the Great Lakes and the implications for control Journal Article
In: Journal of Great Lakes Research, vol. 47, S1, pp. S549-S569, 2021.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: control, genetics, management, migration, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {A review of sea lamprey dispersal and population structure in the Great Lakes and the implications for control},
author = {Docker, M.F., Johnson, N.S., Bravener, G.A., Garroway, C., Hammers, B., Hrodey, P., Hume, J.B., Lewandoski, S., Young, B., Zollweg-Horan, E.C., & Ogden, J. },
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jglr.2021.09.015},
year = {2021},
date = {2021-12-01},
urldate = {2025-12-01},
journal = {Journal of Great Lakes Research},
volume = {47, S1},
pages = {S549-S569},
abstract = {Understanding the population structure of invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in the Great Lakes basin is essential for an effective control program. We review knowledge of lake connectivity, dispersal during the parasitic stage, and results from phenotypic, demographic, and genetic studies to evaluate how sea lamprey populations are structured. There is no evidence for contemporary movement between Lake Ontario and the Atlantic population, although it appears possible. Dispersal between Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes is more likely, as is contemporary movement between Lakes Ontario and Erie via the Welland Canal, although neither has been directly observed. Downstream movement from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario via the Niagara River has been reported. Bidirectional movement between Lakes Erie and Huron has been observed, and movement of sea lamprey among the upper Great Lakes (especially between Lakes Huron and Michigan) is relatively common, although complete mixing likely does not occur. The maximum straight-line dispersal distance reported for a tagged sea lamprey was 628 km between the St. Marys River and western Lake Erie. Genetic population studies using a variety of molecular markers generally found weak but significant broad-scale population structure (e.g., between freshwater and anadromous populations, and among Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and the upper Great Lakes), but finer-scale structure was rarely detected. Nevertheless, some within-basin structure is suggested by regional differences in phenotypic and demographic traits (e.g., sex ratio, body size). Further study will be important because management is most efficiently targeted when the geography of demographically independent populations is well-characterized.},
keywords = {control, genetics, management, migration, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Understanding the population structure of invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in the Great Lakes basin is essential for an effective control program. We review knowledge of lake connectivity, dispersal during the parasitic stage, and results from phenotypic, demographic, and genetic studies to evaluate how sea lamprey populations are structured. There is no evidence for contemporary movement between Lake Ontario and the Atlantic population, although it appears possible. Dispersal between Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes is more likely, as is contemporary movement between Lakes Ontario and Erie via the Welland Canal, although neither has been directly observed. Downstream movement from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario via the Niagara River has been reported. Bidirectional movement between Lakes Erie and Huron has been observed, and movement of sea lamprey among the upper Great Lakes (especially between Lakes Huron and Michigan) is relatively common, although complete mixing likely does not occur. The maximum straight-line dispersal distance reported for a tagged sea lamprey was 628 km between the St. Marys River and western Lake Erie. Genetic population studies using a variety of molecular markers generally found weak but significant broad-scale population structure (e.g., between freshwater and anadromous populations, and among Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and the upper Great Lakes), but finer-scale structure was rarely detected. Nevertheless, some within-basin structure is suggested by regional differences in phenotypic and demographic traits (e.g., sex ratio, body size). Further study will be important because management is most efficiently targeted when the geography of demographically independent populations is well-characterized.
Hume, J.B., Almeida, P.R., Buckley, C., Criger, L.A., Madenjian, C.P., Robinson, K.F., Wang, C. & Muir, A.M.
In: Journal of Great Lakes Research, vol. 47, S1, pp. S704–S722, 2021.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: climate, conservation, control, growth, management, migration, sea lamprey, trap
@article{nokey,
title = {Managing native and non-native sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) through anthropogenic change: a prospective assessment of key threats and uncertainties},
author = {Hume, J.B., Almeida, P.R., Buckley, C., Criger, L.A., Madenjian, C.P., Robinson, K.F., Wang, C. & Muir, A.M.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jglr.2020.08.015},
year = {2021},
date = {2021-12-01},
urldate = {2021-12-01},
journal = {Journal of Great Lakes Research},
volume = {47, S1},
pages = {S704–S722},
abstract = {Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) is a species of conservation concern in their native range of the Atlantic coasts of Europe (Near Threatened to Critically Endangered) and North America (Secure to Critically Imperiled), and an invasive species of great economic and ecological concern in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Despite differences in life history strategy (anadromous natives vs adfluvial non-natives), the biology of sea lamprey is sufficiently similar to expect comparable responses to large-scale environmental change. We take a prospective look at the future (50 to 100 years) of sea lamprey management in an era of considerable environmental disturbance, and consider biological responses, management actions, and the future status of populations across the native and non-native ranges. Based on facilitated discussion by a diverse group of international experts, two major but poorly characterized classes of threats to sea lamprey were identified: climate change and socio-political issues. We discuss how climate induced changes affect growth, bioenergetics, and phenology of sea lamprey, and associated effects on control tactics (pesticides and barriers) and conservation. We consider tensions surrounding improving connectivity in the Great Lakes while controlling invasive sea lamprey, and discuss supplements and alternatives to pesticides and their wider effect, as well as the effects of new invasive species. To prevent the extirpation of native sea lamprey populations, or the re-expansion of non-native populations, we conclude with a call for new and ongoing dialogue and collaboration among all sea lamprey biologists and managers across the native and non-native range.},
keywords = {climate, conservation, control, growth, management, migration, sea lamprey, trap},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) is a species of conservation concern in their native range of the Atlantic coasts of Europe (Near Threatened to Critically Endangered) and North America (Secure to Critically Imperiled), and an invasive species of great economic and ecological concern in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Despite differences in life history strategy (anadromous natives vs adfluvial non-natives), the biology of sea lamprey is sufficiently similar to expect comparable responses to large-scale environmental change. We take a prospective look at the future (50 to 100 years) of sea lamprey management in an era of considerable environmental disturbance, and consider biological responses, management actions, and the future status of populations across the native and non-native ranges. Based on facilitated discussion by a diverse group of international experts, two major but poorly characterized classes of threats to sea lamprey were identified: climate change and socio-political issues. We discuss how climate induced changes affect growth, bioenergetics, and phenology of sea lamprey, and associated effects on control tactics (pesticides and barriers) and conservation. We consider tensions surrounding improving connectivity in the Great Lakes while controlling invasive sea lamprey, and discuss supplements and alternatives to pesticides and their wider effect, as well as the effects of new invasive species. To prevent the extirpation of native sea lamprey populations, or the re-expansion of non-native populations, we conclude with a call for new and ongoing dialogue and collaboration among all sea lamprey biologists and managers across the native and non-native range.
Hume, J.B., Bravener, G.A. & Johnson, N.S.
What can commercial fishery data in the Great Lakes reveal about juvenile sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) ecology and management? Journal Article
In: Journal of Great Lakes Research, vol. 47, S1, pp. S590–S603, 2021.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: growth, sea lamprey, trophic ecology
@article{nokey,
title = {What can commercial fishery data in the Great Lakes reveal about juvenile sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) ecology and management?},
author = {Hume, J.B., Bravener, G.A. & Johnson, N.S.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jglr.2021.03.023},
year = {2021},
date = {2021-12-01},
urldate = {2021-12-01},
journal = {Journal of Great Lakes Research},
volume = {47, S1},
pages = {S590–S603},
abstract = {The Laurentian Great Lakes of North America support a large and profitable freshwater fishery, but one continuously beset by parasitism from the invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus). Despite being the life stage that inflicts damage to the fishery, therefore necessitating a bi-national control program, our knowledge of juvenile sea lamprey ecology is poor and their response to control efforts are not assessed. Incidental capture of juvenile sea lamprey by commercial fishers is one means to collect data on this enigmatic life stage, and in Lake Huron such data have been collated since 1967. Here, we explore incidental captures of juvenile sea lamprey and their hosts from northern Lake Huron between 1987 and 2017 (n = 33,246 observations) to address four objectives. Firstly, we document collection efforts by fishers to provide historical context to the dataset. Secondly, we pose and test a series of questions related to fishery encounter, host selection, growth, distribution, and sex ratio to highlight how these types of data can be informative regarding juvenile sea lamprey ecology. Results presented here could be used to develop biological hypotheses to be addressed in future work. Thirdly, we directly assessed whether juvenile sea lamprey capture data could be useful in corroborating trends observed in adult sea lamprey abundance and wounding, as well as in identifying abundance and wounding hotspots. Lastly, we summarize research and outreach efforts that have benefited from the capture of juvenile sea lamprey in recent years.},
keywords = {growth, sea lamprey, trophic ecology},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The Laurentian Great Lakes of North America support a large and profitable freshwater fishery, but one continuously beset by parasitism from the invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus). Despite being the life stage that inflicts damage to the fishery, therefore necessitating a bi-national control program, our knowledge of juvenile sea lamprey ecology is poor and their response to control efforts are not assessed. Incidental capture of juvenile sea lamprey by commercial fishers is one means to collect data on this enigmatic life stage, and in Lake Huron such data have been collated since 1967. Here, we explore incidental captures of juvenile sea lamprey and their hosts from northern Lake Huron between 1987 and 2017 (n = 33,246 observations) to address four objectives. Firstly, we document collection efforts by fishers to provide historical context to the dataset. Secondly, we pose and test a series of questions related to fishery encounter, host selection, growth, distribution, and sex ratio to highlight how these types of data can be informative regarding juvenile sea lamprey ecology. Results presented here could be used to develop biological hypotheses to be addressed in future work. Thirdly, we directly assessed whether juvenile sea lamprey capture data could be useful in corroborating trends observed in adult sea lamprey abundance and wounding, as well as in identifying abundance and wounding hotspots. Lastly, we summarize research and outreach efforts that have benefited from the capture of juvenile sea lamprey in recent years.
2020
Hume, J.B., Lucas, M.C., Reinhardt, U., Hrodey, P.J. & Wagner, C.M.
Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) transit of a ramp equipped with studded substrate: implications for fish passage and invasive species control Journal Article
In: Ecological Engineering, vol. 155, no. 10597, 2020.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, conservation, control, fishway, management, sea lamprey, trap
@article{nokey,
title = {Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) transit of a ramp equipped with studded substrate: implications for fish passage and invasive species control},
author = {Hume, J.B., Lucas, M.C., Reinhardt, U., Hrodey, P.J. & Wagner, C.M.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoleng.2020.105957},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-08-01},
urldate = {2020-08-01},
journal = {Ecological Engineering},
volume = {155},
number = {10597},
abstract = {Anguilliform-swimming fishes (eels, lampreys) are undergoing large and global declines due partly to an inability to pass dams via traditional fishways. The installation of “eel ladders” (wetted, studded/bristle substrates that permit these fishes to climb over obstructions) offer a potential solution.
We examined the behaviour of migrating sub-adult sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) as they approached and attempted to ascend a 45° studded ramp in a mesocosm placed in a river. We also examined motivation to use the ramp in the presence of a conspecific alarm cue that signals predation risk.
Entrance (75%) and attraction efficiency (85%) were high, but reduced by the presence of alarm cue. In total, 98% of sea lamprey attracted to the base of the ramp ascended, and alarm cue had no effect. Time to ascend the ramp (post-release) was variable (1–521 min) and on average was 119 min (50% probability = 35 min). Few sea lamprey required multiple attempts to ascend (19.8%) and was more likely during longer transit times, with multiple ramp attachments, and with higher body mass. Propensity to attach to the ramp increased with number of attempts. The high efficacy of this design, compared to poor-mediocre efficiencies of similar designs in previous studies, may be related to water velocity and depth, geometry of substrate studs, substrate presentation (horizontal/vertical, and incline), and length of studded substrate.
Studded ramps represent a substantial opportunity for managers attempting to selectively pass anguilliform fishes over dams, aiding conservation efforts. Applications to the management of sea lamprey include removal in their non-native Great Lakes range, and fish passage in their native range.},
keywords = {alarm cue, conservation, control, fishway, management, sea lamprey, trap},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Anguilliform-swimming fishes (eels, lampreys) are undergoing large and global declines due partly to an inability to pass dams via traditional fishways. The installation of “eel ladders” (wetted, studded/bristle substrates that permit these fishes to climb over obstructions) offer a potential solution.
We examined the behaviour of migrating sub-adult sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) as they approached and attempted to ascend a 45° studded ramp in a mesocosm placed in a river. We also examined motivation to use the ramp in the presence of a conspecific alarm cue that signals predation risk.
Entrance (75%) and attraction efficiency (85%) were high, but reduced by the presence of alarm cue. In total, 98% of sea lamprey attracted to the base of the ramp ascended, and alarm cue had no effect. Time to ascend the ramp (post-release) was variable (1–521 min) and on average was 119 min (50% probability = 35 min). Few sea lamprey required multiple attempts to ascend (19.8%) and was more likely during longer transit times, with multiple ramp attachments, and with higher body mass. Propensity to attach to the ramp increased with number of attempts. The high efficacy of this design, compared to poor-mediocre efficiencies of similar designs in previous studies, may be related to water velocity and depth, geometry of substrate studs, substrate presentation (horizontal/vertical, and incline), and length of studded substrate.
Studded ramps represent a substantial opportunity for managers attempting to selectively pass anguilliform fishes over dams, aiding conservation efforts. Applications to the management of sea lamprey include removal in their non-native Great Lakes range, and fish passage in their native range.
We examined the behaviour of migrating sub-adult sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) as they approached and attempted to ascend a 45° studded ramp in a mesocosm placed in a river. We also examined motivation to use the ramp in the presence of a conspecific alarm cue that signals predation risk.
Entrance (75%) and attraction efficiency (85%) were high, but reduced by the presence of alarm cue. In total, 98% of sea lamprey attracted to the base of the ramp ascended, and alarm cue had no effect. Time to ascend the ramp (post-release) was variable (1–521 min) and on average was 119 min (50% probability = 35 min). Few sea lamprey required multiple attempts to ascend (19.8%) and was more likely during longer transit times, with multiple ramp attachments, and with higher body mass. Propensity to attach to the ramp increased with number of attempts. The high efficacy of this design, compared to poor-mediocre efficiencies of similar designs in previous studies, may be related to water velocity and depth, geometry of substrate studs, substrate presentation (horizontal/vertical, and incline), and length of studded substrate.
Studded ramps represent a substantial opportunity for managers attempting to selectively pass anguilliform fishes over dams, aiding conservation efforts. Applications to the management of sea lamprey include removal in their non-native Great Lakes range, and fish passage in their native range.
Hume, J.B., Luhring, T.M. & Wagner, C.M.
In: Biological Invasions, vol. 22, pp. 2129–2142, 2020.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, control, management, migration, sea lamprey, semiochemical, trap
@article{nokey,
title = {Push, pull, or push-pull? An alarm cue better guides sea lamprey towards capture devices than a mating pheromone during the reproductive migration},
author = {Hume, J.B., Luhring, T.M. & Wagner, C.M. },
url = {https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10530-020-02242-4},
year = {2020},
date = {2020-03-16},
journal = {Biological Invasions},
volume = {22},
pages = {2129–2142},
abstract = {Widespread interest in the development of environmentally safe management actions has prompted research into the use of sensory cues to manipulate the movements of invasive species. The push–pull approach, for which attractive and repellent semiochemicals operate synergistically to guide individuals toward traps, has proven successful in insect pest management applications. We examined the effectiveness of a natural repellent (an alarm cue) and a natural attractant (a partial sex pheromone) in push-only (repel), pull-only (attract), and push–pull configurations, to guide invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) toward and into a target trap during spawning migration into rivers. Using PIT telemetry to monitor sea lamprey movement within the river, we found that the alarm cue was capable of strongly altering sea lamprey distribution, “pushing” them toward target areas and generating rates of encounter with trap entrances sufficient to achieve trapping-for-control targets. Encounter rate with trap entrances was not improved, but performed more consistently, with the addition of the attractant in the push–pull configuration. There was evidence this could stem from a transition in internal state of motivation, from migration to reproduction. Use of the attractant alone was ineffective. No odor combination improved trap captures. We conclude that push–pull strategies will prove effective in guiding sea lamprey movements and recommend two improvements for subsequent testing in management scenarios: (1) use of a superior attractant (e.g. a sea lamprey migratory cue derived from conspecific larvae), and (2) its subsequent application to a capture methodology based on the entrainment of individuals near trap entrances.},
keywords = {alarm cue, control, management, migration, sea lamprey, semiochemical, trap},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Widespread interest in the development of environmentally safe management actions has prompted research into the use of sensory cues to manipulate the movements of invasive species. The push–pull approach, for which attractive and repellent semiochemicals operate synergistically to guide individuals toward traps, has proven successful in insect pest management applications. We examined the effectiveness of a natural repellent (an alarm cue) and a natural attractant (a partial sex pheromone) in push-only (repel), pull-only (attract), and push–pull configurations, to guide invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) toward and into a target trap during spawning migration into rivers. Using PIT telemetry to monitor sea lamprey movement within the river, we found that the alarm cue was capable of strongly altering sea lamprey distribution, “pushing” them toward target areas and generating rates of encounter with trap entrances sufficient to achieve trapping-for-control targets. Encounter rate with trap entrances was not improved, but performed more consistently, with the addition of the attractant in the push–pull configuration. There was evidence this could stem from a transition in internal state of motivation, from migration to reproduction. Use of the attractant alone was ineffective. No odor combination improved trap captures. We conclude that push–pull strategies will prove effective in guiding sea lamprey movements and recommend two improvements for subsequent testing in management scenarios: (1) use of a superior attractant (e.g. a sea lamprey migratory cue derived from conspecific larvae), and (2) its subsequent application to a capture methodology based on the entrainment of individuals near trap entrances.
2018
Hume, J.B. & Wagner, C.M.
A death in the family: sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) avoidance of confamilial alarm cues diminishes with phylogenetic distance Journal Article
In: Ecology and Evolution, vol. 8, iss. 7, pp. 3751–3762, 2018.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, evolution, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {A death in the family: sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) avoidance of confamilial alarm cues diminishes with phylogenetic distance},
author = {Hume, J.B. & Wagner, C.M. },
url = {https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.3930},
year = {2018},
date = {2018-03-09},
urldate = {2018-03-09},
journal = {Ecology and Evolution},
volume = {8},
issue = {7},
pages = {3751–3762},
abstract = {Alarm signals released after predator attack function as reliable public information revealing areas of high risk. The utility of this information can extend beyond species boundaries, benefiting heterospecifics capable of recognizing and responding appropriately to the signal. Nonmutually exclusive hypotheses explaining the acquisition of heterospecific reactivity to cues suggest it could be conserved phylogenetically following its evolution in a common ancestor (a species-level effect) and/or learned during periods of shared risk (a population-level effect; e.g., shared predators). Using a laboratory-based space-use behavioral assay, we tested the response of sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) to the damage-released alarm cues of five confamilial (sympatric and allopatric) species and two distantly related out-groups: a sympatric teleost (white sucker Catostomus commersonii) and an allopatric agnathan (Atlantic hagfish Myxine glutinosa). We found that sea lamprey differed in their response to conspecific and heterospecific odors; exhibiting progressively weaker avoidance of cues derived from more phylogenetically distant confamilials regardless of current overlap in distribution. Odors from out-groups elicited no response. These findings suggest that a damage-released alarm cue is at least partially conserved within the Petromyzontidae and that sea lamprey perceives predator attacks directed to closely related taxa. These findings are consistent with similar observations from gastropod, amphibian and bony fish taxa, and we discuss this in an eco-evo context to provide a plausible explanation for the acquisition and maintenance of the response in sea lamprey.},
keywords = {alarm cue, evolution, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Alarm signals released after predator attack function as reliable public information revealing areas of high risk. The utility of this information can extend beyond species boundaries, benefiting heterospecifics capable of recognizing and responding appropriately to the signal. Nonmutually exclusive hypotheses explaining the acquisition of heterospecific reactivity to cues suggest it could be conserved phylogenetically following its evolution in a common ancestor (a species-level effect) and/or learned during periods of shared risk (a population-level effect; e.g., shared predators). Using a laboratory-based space-use behavioral assay, we tested the response of sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) to the damage-released alarm cues of five confamilial (sympatric and allopatric) species and two distantly related out-groups: a sympatric teleost (white sucker Catostomus commersonii) and an allopatric agnathan (Atlantic hagfish Myxine glutinosa). We found that sea lamprey differed in their response to conspecific and heterospecific odors; exhibiting progressively weaker avoidance of cues derived from more phylogenetically distant confamilials regardless of current overlap in distribution. Odors from out-groups elicited no response. These findings suggest that a damage-released alarm cue is at least partially conserved within the Petromyzontidae and that sea lamprey perceives predator attacks directed to closely related taxa. These findings are consistent with similar observations from gastropod, amphibian and bony fish taxa, and we discuss this in an eco-evo context to provide a plausible explanation for the acquisition and maintenance of the response in sea lamprey.
2016
Luhring, T.M., Meckley, T.D., Johnson, N.S., Siefkes, M.J., Hume, J.B. & Wagner, C.M.
A semelparous fish continues upstream migration when exposed to alarm cue, but adjusts movement speed and timing Journal Article
In: Animal Behaviour, vol. 121, pp. 41–51, 2016.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, control, migration, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {A semelparous fish continues upstream migration when exposed to alarm cue, but adjusts movement speed and timing},
author = {Luhring, T.M., Meckley, T.D., Johnson, N.S., Siefkes, M.J., Hume, J.B. & Wagner, C.M.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2016.08.007},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-11-01},
urldate = {2016-11-01},
journal = {Animal Behaviour},
volume = {121},
pages = {41–51},
abstract = {Animals make trade-offs between predation risk and pursuit of opportunities such as foraging and reproduction. Trade-offs between antipredator behaviours and foraging are well suited to manipulation in laboratory and field settings and have generated a vast compendium of knowledge. However, much less is known about how animals manage trade-offs between predation risk and pursuit of reproductive opportunities in the absence of the confounding effects of foraging. In the present study, we investigated how the nonfeeding migratory life stage of sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus, responds to odour from dead conspecifics (a cue that induces avoidance behaviours in laboratory and field studies). We released groups of PIT-tagged sea lamprey 65 m from the shore of Lake Michigan or 287 m upstream in Carp Lake River and used antennas to detect their movements in the river. As the breeding season progressed, sea lamprey initiated upstream movement earlier and were more likely to enter the river. Sea lamprey that began the night in Lake Michigan entered Carp Lake River at higher rates and accelerated upstream when exposed to high concentrations of alarm cue, consistent with animals attempting to minimize time spent in risky areas. Sea lampreys that began the night in the river delayed upstream movement when exposed to alarm cue, consistent with animals sheltering and gathering information about a source of risk. We attribute this context-specific reaction to alarm cue to differences in perceived vulnerability to predation in sheltered positions in the river versus exposed positions in the lake. Once in the river, the vast majority of sea lamprey moved upstream independent of alarm cue or Julian date. Although life-history-induced time and energy budgets place rigid constraints on the direction of migration, sea lamprey attend to predation risk by modifying movement timing and speed.},
keywords = {alarm cue, control, migration, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Animals make trade-offs between predation risk and pursuit of opportunities such as foraging and reproduction. Trade-offs between antipredator behaviours and foraging are well suited to manipulation in laboratory and field settings and have generated a vast compendium of knowledge. However, much less is known about how animals manage trade-offs between predation risk and pursuit of reproductive opportunities in the absence of the confounding effects of foraging. In the present study, we investigated how the nonfeeding migratory life stage of sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus, responds to odour from dead conspecifics (a cue that induces avoidance behaviours in laboratory and field studies). We released groups of PIT-tagged sea lamprey 65 m from the shore of Lake Michigan or 287 m upstream in Carp Lake River and used antennas to detect their movements in the river. As the breeding season progressed, sea lamprey initiated upstream movement earlier and were more likely to enter the river. Sea lamprey that began the night in Lake Michigan entered Carp Lake River at higher rates and accelerated upstream when exposed to high concentrations of alarm cue, consistent with animals attempting to minimize time spent in risky areas. Sea lampreys that began the night in the river delayed upstream movement when exposed to alarm cue, consistent with animals sheltering and gathering information about a source of risk. We attribute this context-specific reaction to alarm cue to differences in perceived vulnerability to predation in sheltered positions in the river versus exposed positions in the lake. Once in the river, the vast majority of sea lamprey moved upstream independent of alarm cue or Julian date. Although life-history-induced time and energy budgets place rigid constraints on the direction of migration, sea lamprey attend to predation risk by modifying movement timing and speed.
Wagner, C.M., Kierczynski, K.E., Hume, J.B. & Luhring, T.M.
Exposure to a putative alarm cue reduces downstream drift in larval sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in the laboratory Journal Article
In: Journal of Fish Biology, vol. 89, iss. 3, pp. 1897–1904, 2016.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, control, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {Exposure to a putative alarm cue reduces downstream drift in larval sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in the laboratory},
author = {Wagner, C.M., Kierczynski, K.E., Hume, J.B. & Luhring, T.M.},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1111/jfb.13095},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-07-26},
urldate = {2016-07-26},
journal = {Journal of Fish Biology},
volume = {89},
issue = {3},
pages = {1897–1904},
abstract = {An experimental mesocosm study suggested larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus detect and respond to an alarm cue released by dead adult conspecifics. Larvae exhibited a reduced tendency to move downstream when exposed to the cue and were less likely to move under continuous v. pulsed exposure. These findings support the hypothesis that short-term exposure to the alarm cue would probably result in retraction into the burrow, consistent with the blind, cryptic lifestyle of the larval P. marinus.},
keywords = {alarm cue, control, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
An experimental mesocosm study suggested larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus detect and respond to an alarm cue released by dead adult conspecifics. Larvae exhibited a reduced tendency to move downstream when exposed to the cue and were less likely to move under continuous v. pulsed exposure. These findings support the hypothesis that short-term exposure to the alarm cue would probably result in retraction into the burrow, consistent with the blind, cryptic lifestyle of the larval P. marinus.
2015
Hume, J.B., Meckley, T.D., Johnson, N.S., Luhring, T.M., Siefkes, M.J. & Wagner, C.M.
The application of an alarm cue in a push-pull configuration hastens arrival of invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) at a trapping location Journal Article
In: Canadian journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, vol. 72, iss. 12, pp. 1799–1806, 2015.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: alarm cue, barrier, control, management, sea lamprey, trap
@article{nokey,
title = {The application of an alarm cue in a push-pull configuration hastens arrival of invasive sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) at a trapping location},
author = {Hume, J.B., Meckley, T.D., Johnson, N.S., Luhring, T.M., Siefkes, M.J. & Wagner, C.M. },
url = {https://doi.org/10.1139/cjfas-2014-0535},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-12-01},
urldate = {2015-12-01},
journal = {Canadian journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences},
volume = {72},
issue = {12},
pages = {1799–1806},
abstract = {The sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus is an invasive pest in the Laurentian Great Lakes basin, threatening the persistence of important commercial and recreational fisheries. There is substantial interest in developing effective trapping practices via the application of behavior-modifying semiochemicals (odors). Here we report on the effectiveness of utilizing repellent and attractant odors in a push–pull configuration, commonly employed to tackle invertebrate pests, to improve trapping efficacy at permanent barriers to sea lamprey migration. When a half-stream channel was activated by a naturally derived repellent odor (a putative alarm cue), we found that sea lamprey located a trap entrance significantly faster than when no odor was present as a result of their redistribution within the stream. The presence of a partial sex pheromone, acting as an attractant within the trap, was not found to further decrease the time to when sea lamprey located a trap entrance relative to when the alarm cue alone was applied. Neither the application of alarm cue singly nor alarm cue and partial sex pheromone in combination was found to improve the numbers of sea lamprey captured in the trap versus when no odor was present — likely because nominal capture rate during control trials was unusually high during the study period. Behavioural guidance using these odors has the potential to both improve control of invasive non-native sea lamprey in the Great Lakes as well as improving the efficiency of fish passage devices used in the restoration of threatened lamprey species elsewhere.},
keywords = {alarm cue, barrier, control, management, sea lamprey, trap},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus is an invasive pest in the Laurentian Great Lakes basin, threatening the persistence of important commercial and recreational fisheries. There is substantial interest in developing effective trapping practices via the application of behavior-modifying semiochemicals (odors). Here we report on the effectiveness of utilizing repellent and attractant odors in a push–pull configuration, commonly employed to tackle invertebrate pests, to improve trapping efficacy at permanent barriers to sea lamprey migration. When a half-stream channel was activated by a naturally derived repellent odor (a putative alarm cue), we found that sea lamprey located a trap entrance significantly faster than when no odor was present as a result of their redistribution within the stream. The presence of a partial sex pheromone, acting as an attractant within the trap, was not found to further decrease the time to when sea lamprey located a trap entrance relative to when the alarm cue alone was applied. Neither the application of alarm cue singly nor alarm cue and partial sex pheromone in combination was found to improve the numbers of sea lamprey captured in the trap versus when no odor was present — likely because nominal capture rate during control trials was unusually high during the study period. Behavioural guidance using these odors has the potential to both improve control of invasive non-native sea lamprey in the Great Lakes as well as improving the efficiency of fish passage devices used in the restoration of threatened lamprey species elsewhere.
2012
Hume, J.B. & Adams, C.E.
First record of larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus L. in the Endrick Water, Loch Lomond Journal Article
In: The Glasgow Naturalist, vol. 24, iss. 4, 2012.
Links | BibTeX | Tags: distribution, sea lamprey
@article{nokey,
title = {First record of larval sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus L. in the Endrick Water, Loch Lomond},
author = {Hume, J.B. & Adams, C.E. },
url = {https://www.glasgownaturalhistory.org.uk/gn25_4/hume.pdf},
year = {2012},
date = {2012-10-01},
urldate = {2012-10-01},
journal = {The Glasgow Naturalist},
volume = {24},
issue = {4},
keywords = {distribution, sea lamprey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}