Compared spatio-temporal distribution of the ichthyological communities in the reservoir lakes of Esch-sur-Sûre and Nisramont

The aim of our study is to describe the spatio-temporal distribution of fish populations in the reservoirs of Esch-sur-Sûre (Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg) and Nisramont (Belgium). The main topic is the response of fish assemblages regarding habitat conditions and food resources. The study focuses on the different development stages, from the larvae and juveniles to the adults. Sampling is done according to a protocol combining electrofishing in the littoral zone and the use of vertical gillnets in the pelagic zone. The 0+ fishes are studied in the littoral zone using a modified point abundance method. Samples for water analyses, phyto and zooplankton are collected simultaneously. This study has been conducted during three consecutive years. We managed to gain a good comprehension of fish distribution patterns in these artificial lakes. We also set up a standardized fish sampling method combining electrofishing and vertical gillnets.