SH 11
AS
1916
Copy 1

SH 11
AS
1916

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
U, >, BUREAU OF FISHERIES
HUGH M, SMITH, Commissioner

INVESTIGATION, EXPERIMENTS, AND SURVEYS RELATIVE
TOTHE AQUATIC RESOURCES OF THE UNITED STATES
CONDUCTED BY THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES
DURING THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED
JUNE 30, 1916

CONTENTS

Studies of Marine Fishes
Shellfish Investigations . 6
Progress of Diamond-Back Tee Orit

Surveys of Fishing Grounds . 5 ‘
Oceanographic Studies . ‘ :

Studies of Anadromous Fishes so
Investigations Relating to sR Wetce aioe ‘4
Service of the Biological Laboratories .
Miscellaneous Investigations 3

[Extracted from the Report of the Commissioner of Fisheries
to the Secretary of Commerce for the fiscal year ended June 30,
1916, pages 34-49]

Bureau of Fisheries Document No. 836a

WASHINGTON
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
1917

Monegraph

AQUATIC RESOURCES OF THE UNITED STATES.
STUDIES OF MARINE FISHES.

Notwithstanding the long existence of great marine fisheries and
the common assumption of their inexhaustibility, the development
of modern fisheries has been such as to call for the artificial propaga-
tion of certain species and to create a demand for knowledge of the
life histories, the habits, and the migrations of the important fishes.
This knowledge is desired in order that we may determine with what
impunity the fishing methods may be continually increased in extent
and thoroughness, or what measures of protection may be appro-
poe and so that we may properly appraise the value and the possi-

ilities of cultural operations as applied to marine species. The
problem must be approached through a complex but systematic plan
of study, and final results are not obtainable in a short time. Never-
theless, the continued collecting of fishes at various places and in the
different seasons, the persistent application of the methods of modern
science to the details of structure that may be characteristic of differ-
ent localities or ages or seasons or that may be indicative of migrations
or other phenomena of life, and the careful consideration of the
conditions and results of commercial fisheries will bring us finally to
the attainment of a degree of precise knowledge that a few years ago
we could not have anticipated.

The investigation of the sea herring, which, as the basis of the
herring and sardine industries, is one of the most important fishes of

the North Atlantic coast, has been continued in connection with the
oceanographic work of the schooner Grampus. The analysis of the
data gathered has been pushed as rapidly as possible and it is ex-
pected that the results will be ready for publication within a short time.

The most important commercial fish of the South Atlantic and Gulf
seaboard is the mullet. Careful studies pursued through temporary
services in connection with the Beaufort laboratory have laid a
definite and necessary basis for more comprehensive inquiries when
it may be possible to carry them out. It is expected that a detailed
report of the result of the studies can be published after the conclusion
of one more season’s work.

An investigation of the habits and possible races of flounders has
also been undertaken on the coast of New England, but as the study
is only in its incipiency and the investigator has not yet been able to
devote to it his entire time it is not now possible to report a definite
degree of progress.

For several years the Bureau has directed attention to the condition
of the tuna fishery on the coast of southern California, which, with
the canning industry based upon it, has shown such marked develop-
ment in the last few years. The fishery and canning industries are
subject to unfortunate vicissitudes because of the irregular appear-
ance of the tuna in the waters accessible by the present methods of
fishery. Nothing of a definite nature has been known as to the
habits of the tuna, the causes that govern their appearance and dis-
appearance, the parts of the ocean generally frequented by them,
or the localities resorted to for purposes of breeding. For nearly two
years the Bureau has attempted to gain such information as was

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REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 35

obtainable through investigations conducted from shore or by the
use of small boats. It was realized that the proper method of attack
was through investigations extending over a large area of the ocean
and conducted through the instrumentality of a seagoing vessel.
This was fortunately made possible in February, 1916, when Congress

~ through an urgent deficiency bill provided an appropriation which

enabled the Bureau to detail the steamer Albatross for special service
in the tuna investigation. The first cruise was promptly begun, and
on May 10 the vessel arrived at San Diego after spending three weeks
in cruising along the coast of Lower California and several hundred
mites farther south and west, as far as Los Coronados Islands. Other
cruises followed this one, and the investigation was in progress as the
fiscal year closed. From the middle of April to the middle of May
there were no tuna along the Lower California peninsula from San
Diego to Socorro Island and westward to Guadalupe Island. Two of
the best practical tuna fishermen of San Diego accompanied the vessel
on this cruise. In the latter part of May tuna were encountered off
Lower California near San Geronimo Island, and near the San Benito
Islands; none were found on a cruise extending west of San Diego
150 miles. During the month of June tuna were present off San
Diego and San Pedro, although they were not taken in commer-
cial quantities, this being attributed to the coldness of the surface
water. The investigation has been somewhat hampered by the con-
tmued prevalence of rough weather, but will be continued and
prosecuted as actively as possible during the next fiscal year.

_ The importance of a knowledge of the larval development of fishes
was cited in the last annual report. Such studies have been continued
both at the Woods Hole laboratory and in connection with the investi-
gations in Chesapeake Bay. At the Woods Hole laboratory sub-
stantial information was gained regarding 12 species, 6 of which are
of direct commercial importance, namely, the tautog, cunner, scup,
sea robin, whiting, butterfish, anchovy, menhaden, glut herring, silver-
side, three-spined stickleback, and four-spined stickleback. For
years the Bureau has endeavored to gain information regarding the
breeding habits of the menhaden. With the knowledge gathered
during the present fiscal year, the Bureau is now in better position to
follow up the life history of the menhaden. '

Near the close of the fiscal year and in connection with the Chesa-
peake Bay investigations, additional data were obtained regarding the
eggs and larve of the anchovy, hog choker, goosefish, and gray trout
(squeteague). Experiments with hatching of butterfish were attended
with success.

SHELLFISH INVESTIGATIONS.

The oyster, as the most important food resource of our waters, has
contmued to command such attention as it was possible for the
Bureau to bestow. Owing to the fact that oyster culture, where it
is now practiced, has reached a relatively advanced stage of develop-
ment and, where not practiced, is hindered by peculiar economic
conditions, the problems of the industry are comparatively complex
and difficult of solution. Until the close of the fiscal year 1916 the
Bureau had not been in position to give the continued and effective
attention to the oyster that it deserved. Recent action by Congress
has to a large extent remedied this deficiency and more effective serv-

36 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

ice to the oyster fishery may be expected in the future. This has been
brought about by the establishment of several new positions carrying
salaries that will attract and retain competent assistants.

Meantime the Bureau has sought to attack such problems of oyster
culture as were adapted to its means and facilities. Encouraging
progress has been made in studies of the propagation of oysters, the
nutrition of oysters, and the occurrence of phenomena of “‘ereening”’
and ‘“‘ereen gill.” In the study of ‘green gill’”’ the results have been
of unusual interest and value. While no method of controlling the
“oreen gill’’ has been determined, it seems well established that the
green color is due to the presence of a particular diatom, one of the
minute floating plants that form a large element of the food supply
of oysters. This particular species of diatom is known as Navicula
ostrearia, and is identical with the form which is abundant in the
region of Marennes, France, and which gives to the oysters of that
region the peculiar color and flavor which are so highly esteemed.
It is not yet ascertained what are the causes of the peculiar abun-
dance of this form in certain years and in certain localities, but when
it is known to the public that the occurrence of “green gill”’ merely
means that the oysters have attained a condition that 1s so highly
esteemed in the markets of Europe much should be done to dispel
the present prejudice which occasionally causes great financial loss
to our planters. Instead of being dreaded or a cause of pecuniary
loss, the “green gill’? may be welcomed as giving the opportunity to
supply a superior article at perhaps a premium in price. These state-
ments do not apply to the oysters which are marked by greening of
the entire body owing to the presence of certain mineral salts in the
water. This is a distinct condition not easily confused with the
well-known “green gill.”

The problems of oyster culture on the Pacific coast, where an indus-
try of great possibilities is contending against peculiar natural diffi-
culties, have received recognition, although not as yet in a manner
commensurate with the actual needs. Some support has been given
to investigations being pursued in Puget Sound, and the progress
attained has been such as to justify the Bureau at the close of the
fiscal year in arranging to extend a substantially increased measure
of financial aid.

The remarkable growth of the blue-crab fishery during recent years
has made protective action seem imperative, and the Bureau has
been repeatedly importuned for counsel as to the propriety and
effectiveness of specific measures proposed and for information regard-
ing the habits and life history of the crab. Since the blue crab is
migratory, passing at different stages of its life cycle from the waters
of one State to those of another and going from the bays to the
ocean and back, the Federal.Government is the only agency which
can properly and effectively complete the necessary investigations.
The result of careful attention to the matter has been to perfect before
the close of the year an arrangement under which competent services
are secured for attacking the study in a thorough manner.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. oul
PROGRESS OF DIAMOND-BACK TERRAPIN CULTURE.

The success which has previously been attained in the experiments
in terrapin culture has been continued in the past year in even more
marked degree. It is timely to summarize some of the more impor-
tant results at the Beaufort laboratory.

(1) Perhaps the most interesting development of the year is the
fact that the three oldest broods of terrapin that were hatched in the
experimental pounds and grown in captivity have produced eggs.
The two oldest broods, one of which had been winter-fed during the
first season while the other had been permitted to hibernate, began
laying in 1915 and the eggs hatched successfully. The terrapin of
the hatch of 1911 laid eggs in 1916, before the close of the fiscal year.
These significant inferences may be made: (a) That terrapin born
and reared in confinement develop in a normal way and will repro-
duce their kind; (b) that the reproductive cycle may be completed
in six years, even though the terrapin hibernate as in nature; (c) that
by preventing hibernation and forcing growth through the first winter
by feeding in a heated house the maturity as well as the growth of the
terrapin may be advanced by one year, so that a new generation is
started in five years rather than in six.

(2) The adult breeding stock of terrapin has from year to year
steadily creased in productivity, and there is ground for belief that
the adult breeders have not yet reached the maximum capacity for
reproduction. The following figures show the number of young pro-
duced by adult breeders during each of the past four years and also
the average number per female yielded by the original stock of
breeders:

Average
Number of | number per

Year young from) female of

. all adult original

breeders. | breeding

stock.

NOD. 3 o SSE SHB GB AGGOAO5 DESO OSES ERE SHEA ada AEC Ee RAC Mn re Sree Has aA tag ete A anes ate 1,326 12. 81
ONG oo ese He ASO SOA FO SERFS Aas OSE MEE COOOL ERT Te ETA A See Pes rare ee rar tae am Aree anes 1,506 14. 52
IML eon de sdsosnpoheosnsoonsosagssdocododsodnogcsbusddacogusoosossdsesauessccus 1,690 15. 23
NOUR eee Sele ce Ss crate aeecne taste gree SOR RG Sadswct nies cb ame hee bo ee Eee Due 2,128 21, 43

Those terrapm which have been longest in captivity produced in
1915 an average of 21.43 young for each female.

(3) The value of winter feeding during the first season is well
established by the increased rate of growth, the shortening of the time
required to attain reproductive maturity, and the very low rate of
mortality. The death rate has never been so low as during the winter
of 1915-16. Among 700 terrapin fed on fresh food the loss was about

4 per cent, while among those fed on salted food the loss was about
8% per cent. The death rate in hibernating stock was 13 per cent.
The cost of food for winter feeding at Beaufort varies from 3 to 15
cents per 1,000 young terrapin per day, according as salt fish, fresh
ish, or oysters are used. Assuming 10 cents as an average daily
expenditure per 1,000 terrapin, the cost of food for 1 terrapin for a
period of 5 months in the first winter would be 14 cents.

88 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

(4) The death rate among terrapin after the first season is so small
as to be nearly negligible. It is found to be about 1 per cent in the
second year, diminishing with age to one-half per cent and less. The
principal mortality occurs in the first season, and is then found to be
chiefly among the “runts,’”’ which shoald probably be culled out in
ordinary practice. While the death rate has been as high as 20 to 25
per cent during the first season, it has now been reduced, partly
through improved methods of sanitation, to less than 10 per cent.
The losses are remarkably low when it is considered that deaths oceur

rincipally when terrapin are very young and before they have
Beeaine a source of expense, and that the productivity of the terrapin
is such that even a loss of 30 per cent at this stage could readily be
compensated for by increasing the numbers hatched and saved for
rearing. So far as regards disease and death rate the rearing of
terrapin is a matter of much less difficulty than the raising of poultry.

(5) The history of our experiments durmg many years gives
strong grounds for belief that domestication of terrapim is accom-
panied by imereasing productivity and diminishing disease and
mortality. Our experience indicates the advisability of retaining a
select brood stock for a rather indefinite period, instead of adopting
new breeders from year to year, as might be done in stock raising.
Some of the breeders have been in captivity for about 14 years.

It may be noted that the experiments in terrapin culture have
not the nature of small laboratory tests but are carried out upon
such a scale as to be comparable to commercial operations. It is
possible also to check our results against those obtamable in a large
local commercial venture which has adopted methods based upon
those followed in the Bureau’s work. From this it appears that the
various results gained in the Bureau’s experimental work are not to
be taken as exceptional, but that they are, in a general way, typi-
cal of what may be expected in cultural operations conducted accord-
ing to sound principles and with the exercise of proper care.

There are now about 3,000 terrapins under observation and _ clas-
sified in more than 25 experiments which are being directed to obtain
definite answers to practical questions that yet demand attention
and justify the continuance of the investigations. Among these
are: What is the proper proportion to matmtain between males and
females, and what are the best conditions for prolificness in eggs and
for successful hatching? What are the possibilities of improving
rate of growth by selection, and what are the opportunities for pro-
moting economy through proper culling or other methods? These
are only some of the practical questions which warrant further inves-
tigations.

SURVEYS OF FISHING GROUNDS.

Some further work has been done in extending the known limits of
the blackfish grounds off the coast of North Carolina. The Bureau
maintains a buoy on the principal grounds, which is of service to
fishermen both in locating this particular ground and as a bearing
from which to find other grounds. The feueee is not developed in
proportion to the evident possibilities, owing partly to the lack of
suitable boats and partly to the unwillingness of local fishermen to
engage in operations at any distance from the shore. One or two
crews have, however, taken advantage of the opportunities and the

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 39

fishery was regularly followed through the winter and spring of 1915-
16 with results that were very satisfactory to the fishermen and the
vessel owners.

The survey of halibut grounds lying off the coasts of Oregon and
Washington was continued by the steamer Albatross during the first
three months of the fiscal year. The first trip of the Albatross was
to grounds off the coast of Washington from Grays Harbor to Flat-
tery Banks, but the abundance of ground and biue sharks rendered
the location unpromising for the establishment of a fishery at that
time. Two especially favorable halibut bottoms were discovered,
one 31 miles west of Grays Harbor and the other 37 miles S. by W.
from the Umatilla Lightship.

The second trip covered the same region by lines of sounding
intended to determine the possible existence of offshore banks rising
from the deep water. One such bank was located as apparently the
top of a submerged mountam, rising 6,000 feet from the floor of the
ocean. The depth ranged from 525 to over 830 fathoms. The bank
is not shoal enough for fishing, but it suggests the possible existence of
other banks that might be of greater resctieal importance. The
location of the bank is about 278 miles from Cape Flattery Light, the
latter bearing N. 66° E.

A third trip covered the region off the Columbia River and south
therefrom as far as Cape Meares. Good halibut bottom was found
S. 71° W. of Columbia River Lightship, 17 miles out. South along
the 100-fathom curve to Cascade Head good bottom was noted for
nearly the entire distance in 110 to 120 fathoms. <A patch of suitable
bottom was located 22 miles northwest of Cape Meares Light in 94 fath-
oms. The largest ground discovered by the Albatross on this trip lies
between Tillamook Head and Cape Falcon, 28 to 30 miles from the
coast. The bottom is of coarse and fine gravel, black sand, and
granular shale, and an abundance of life was noted at the surface
of the water. Important hydrographic observations were made and
reported to the Coast and Geodetic Survey and to the Navy Depart-
ment. A report of the halibut survey, with charts, will soon be
published.

OCEANOGRAPHIC STUDIES.

If we were interested to know the capacity of certain lands for
the support of particular kinds of animals; if we wished to ascertain
the causes of the natural movements of such animals; or if we were
to determine upon a proper policy of handling our stock in governance
of their capture, or in endeavors to increase their numbers by cultural
methods, we could not neglect to consider the character of the land
in its various parts, its yield in vegetation small and large.

Similar inquiries, roughly speaking, when applied to the ocean
constitute the science of oceanography. However it may appear to
the eye, the ocean is not one great homogeneous body of water, but
is marked by a diversity such as we are familiar with upon the land.
Variations in depth, in saltness, in temperature, or m richness of
animal and plant life are always encounterable, whether we proceed
from the shores to the open sea, from the surface to the bottom, from
east to west or north to south, from any one geographic region to
another. There are variations from year to year, even from season
to season; there exist veritable deserts where abundant fish might

40 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

starve from want of food, contrasted with zones of plenty. There are
currents and counter currents and blendings of different waters.
In one geographic locality, waters flowing from tropical regions and
laden with characteristic animals and plants may overlie waters
emanating from arctic domains and carrying their peculiar types of
living things. If we do not have knowledge of such conditions, we
can not determine whether a condition of extreme paucity of fish life
such as was conspicuous on our eastern shores in the summer of 1916
is an indication of exhaustion of the fisheries or is an inevitable con-
sequence of observable oceanographic abnormalities that can not be
affected by man’s operations; we will not be able to understand
what general movements of fishes or variations in local abundance
of fishes are attributable to unwise human operations and what are
properly to be expected as a reflection of normal phenomena of nature.

Oceanographic studies are not new in this or other countries; and
extensive data have been gained by the Bureau at various times
during many years, but within the past few years the Bureau has
planned for better coordination of such studies as could be conducted
within its means. Operations have been pursued intensively in re-
stricted regions, so that a completed exploration might be made and
relations established with a degree of definiteness that would make it
possible to deduce some practical conclusions.

The investigation of waters off the Atlantic coast, primarily in
the Gulf of Maine and southward to the Grand Banks, has been
continued in connection with studies of the life history and habits of
the herring and other fishes. The schooner Grampus was detailed
to this work with an assistant from the office in active charge of the
observations, while the investigation was under the fortunate direc-
tion of a skilled oceanographer whose services were available to the
Bureau. The results gained during preceding years have been made
public from time to time and a final report may be expected within a
short while.

Near as the Chesapeake Bay is to the center of administration and
important as its fisheries are, we have been without systematic and
detailed knowledge of the physical and biological features of its
waters and of the effect of such conditions upon the constant move-
ments and varying abundance of important fishes. Beginning in
October, 1915, the steamer ish Hawk was detailed to a Sao in-
vestigation of the Chesapeake Bay under the direction of a well-
equipped assistant. At intervals of a month or six weeks there have
been cruises over the bay, while observations of various sorts were
made and material collected for later careful study. Tne investiga-
tion was by no means confined to technically oceanographic subjects,
but a number of useful inquiries were embraced in the general scope
of work. and many valuable services rendered. The existence of
resources in hydroids, or ‘‘sea moss,” the basis of a possible new
industry was demonstrated; the spawning habits and the life his-
tories of fishes were studied; experiments were made with the propa-
gation of certain species; crab fishermen were induced to experiment
successfully with use of pickled dogfish and shark meat as bait,
and a probable use established for a fishery product that had hitherto
been wasted. The United States National Museum, upon invitation
from this Bureau, also took advantage of an unusual opportunity
to add to its natural history collections. The survey must be ex-

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 41

tended into the next fiscal year before it can reach a stage of com--
letion.

E Hach important vessel, where engaged in other primary investiga-
tions, has taken advantage of the opportunities for recording hydro-
graphic observations as far as consistent with the economical prose-
cution of its immediate objects. Thus data of some value have been
reported by the steamer Albatross while pursuing special studies of
the western coast and by the steamer /%ish Hawk while working off the
coast of North Carolina.

STUDIES OF ANADROMOUS FISHES.

Among the most highly esteemed of our food fishes are those that
spend the greater part of their lives in the ocean, but at one stage
enter the rivers for the purpose of reproduction. Such are the
salmons, the striped bass, the shad, and the sturgeons. Crowding as
they do at one particular season into certain restricted channels,
namely, the river courses of our coastal slopes, they become the more
readily an easy prey to man’s pursuit. Unless the greatest foresight
and restraint are exercised in the fishery, and the methods of arti-
ficial propagation are resorted to, such fishes are certainly doomed to
rapid diminution, if not complete disappearance. The absolute
abundance of anadromous fishes is too easily overestimated. Take
all the shad which even in past times entered our rivers and strew
them widely over both land and water of the coastal plain, and their
‘‘abundance’’ would be lost to view; or, as may indeed be done in
nature, scatter them over the continental slope beneath the ocean waters
and they become one of the rarer fishes of the sea. There is little
reason to wonder that a shad is so seldom taken in the ocean fishery
followed off the greater portion of our coast. It would have to be an
extraordinary condition, such as abundant food, perhaps, that would
bring shad together in a particular region of the sea that would per-
mit an ocean fishery for shad to be carried on. Such, indeed, appears
to be the case of certain regions off the northeastern coast where
‘“‘sea-run shad” become a feature of the local markets. What is the
origin of such shad? Are they a distinct race, or are these the shad
that were bred in southern rivers? The extent and directions of
migration of the fish are questions of vital interest. To what extent
are the runs of one river affected by fishing operations in another?
In what degree does artificial propagation in one stream yield returns
of value to another? These are all kindred questions or aspects of
one general problem for each anadromous species.

Notwithstanding the attention which has been devoted to the
shad durimg so many years, the paucity of explicit knowledge is
keenly felt. Early in the fiscal year the Bureau instituted a com-
prehensive investigation of the shad, hoping that the application of
newer methods of investigation may afford the key by which the
mysteries may be unlocked. Beginning with the St. Johns River
in Florida in January, the investigator has worked up the coast,
visiting the principal shad streams as nearly as possible at the time
when the fish are arriving from the sea. By the close of the fiscal
pene he had reached New England, where studies were being made

oth of the native shad of Maine and the sea shad of the waters
north of Cape Cod. Many questions have received attention,
71823—17——2

49 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

although the primary purposes have been to determine if shad of
different rivers or of different brood regions present distinguishable
racial differences and to obtain information as to the extent of the
coastwise movements of the fish. Many data have been accumulated
and many specimens secured, all of which must form the basis of
subsequent detailed studies before exact conclusions can be drawn.

Associated with the shad and herrmg and having similar habits is
the glut herring, a species of considerable abundance but one which
until recently found only a hmited market in the localities in which
‘taken. The past few years have witnessed a marked increase in
value and dimimution in numbers. During the past season experi-
ments were made by an assistant in cooperation with fish culturists
to ascertain the best methods of handling and hatching the eggs,
and the results have indicated that the artificial propagation of the
species on a large scale is feasible.

The detailed study of the life history of the salmon of the Sacra-
mento and Columbia Rivers has been continued and the field work
is practically concluded. With the study of accumulated data and
the preparation of the report during the ensuing fiscal year, it is
expected that conclusions will be reached that will guide our fish-
cultural operations to a stage of greater efficiency. In the direction
of these studies the investigator has had not only the benefit of the
most expert counsel but the sympathy and suggestions of practical
fish culturists.

INVESTIGATIONS RELATING TO FRESH-WATER FISHES.

The field of fresh-water. fish vestigations has been too little
touched, although the immediate opportunities of domestic fish
culture are probably greatest among fresh-water forms. No one
assumes that the great complex of streams and abundant lakes and
ponds are productive to their maximum capacity, but rarely is due
care taken to conserve in practicable ways the conditions m them
favorable to the growth and propagation of fish. This phase of the
general problem of fish production is not yet adequately realized
nor are the principles satisfactorily developed.

That the streams, lakes, and ponds should be stocked and restocked
with fish is an ever growing demand which indicates the widespread
interest in such fisheries, whether they serve as a means of recrea-
tion or as a source of food. The stocking and restocking of waters
is, however, not usually the principal desideratum. In specific
instances the actual condition to be relieved may be due to an over-
abundant stock. Just as agriculture has long since passed the stage
where increased production is sought primarily through the planting
of more seed in a given area, so it is incumbent to give proper atten-
tion to promoting a favorable condition for the growth of fish, look-
ing intelligently to the maintenance of suitable condition of physi-
cal environment, abundance of food, proper association of species,
and a correct proportioning of numbers and variety of fishes to the
biological capacity of the water.

The fishery problems of fresh water are undoubtedly simpler than
those of the seas, but they are certainly less directly approachable
than the problems of agriculture which have met their solutions.

_It is not surprising, therefore, that, throughout the country in mat-

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 43
ters of fish culture, there is as yet too little serious endeavor to find
real causes or to apply appropriate remedies. Year by year the
Bureau is devoting more careful and fitting attention to the prob-
lems of fresh-water fisheries, and some of its principal activities in
this field may be referred to.

The problem of fish culture, at least as referring to pond fishes,
is primarily one of food supply. Our knowledge of the food of
fishes is as yet seriously inadequate. The food taken by fishes
varies with the species, with size and age of the fish, with the season
of the year, and with the abundance of the various kinds of food
materials present in different bodies of water. A few observations
in one locality or at one season of the year afford no criterion for
the conclusions that we may seek to draw for an appraisal of the pos-
sibilities of fish production in any body of water, for an understand-
ing of the variations in the sizes attained by a given species of fish
in different bodies of water, and for the direction of our efforts to
promote an abundent and reasonably constant supply of food under
all conditions subject to control.

One of the investigations of the food of fishes that has been pur-
sued comprises an examination of a number of perch taken from
each of two lakes in Wisconsin durmg each week in the year. At
the same time collateral studies have been made of the food of many
of the important fishes, their habits and interrelations. Some of the
results have been submitted for publication, while other reports are
in preparation. The accumulation of such data is not of theoretical
interest; it is indispensable to a purpose, for it must lead eventually
to intelligent conclusions as to the highest possibilities in rearing
fishes and the methods of realizing such possibilities.

At the Fairport station several special fish-food studies are being
actively pursued. In connection with the experiments in rearing
buffalofishes, examinations are systematically made to determine the
food taken at all sizes and all stages. Investigation of the food of
all small fishes in the experimental ponds are being conducted in
connection with parallel studies of the available foods in the ponds.
Systematic studies are being made of the aquatic insect life. Experi-
ments are also being directed at the problem of promoting an abund-
ant growth of food organisms by methods of fertilizing the water or
otherwise.

The investigation of the habits and movements of fishes in the
Mississippi River with especial reference to the obstruction of the
tiver by the dam at Keokuk has been continued throughout the fiscal
year. Only tentative conclusions have as yet been reached, but the
progress of the investigation has been such that it may be hoped to
present a full report within another year.

Within the year there has been completed a report embodying the
results of an earlier investigation of the Rangeley Lakes of Maine.
These have for many years been among the more widely known for
their game fishes, and the investigation was undertaken to gam
information that might serve not only as a guide to fish-cultural
development of these particular waters but as a basis for the adop-
tion of a proper policy with regard to other lakes. The report
comprises an unusual! body of information regarding the habits and
relations of many important food and game fishes. .

44 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

There is in progress and now drawing to a conclusion an investi-
gation of the habits of the common smelt, a fish which is of no little
economic importance, partly as an object of fishery itself and more
significantly as a source of food for the larger food and game fishes.

It is generally known that many species of fish are destructive to
the larve of mosquitoes, but, where public health is involved, it
becomes of high importance to know definitely what fish are most
effective in mosquito extermination and under what conditions is
their efficiency greatest. In many cases, where the usual treatments
of waters are impracticable because of expense or other sacrifice
involved, it is convenient to rely upon the agency of small fish,
provided there can be assurance that the result sought will be fully
accomplished. It is possible that in particular cases partial failure
to eliminate all mosquito larve can be turned into complete success
through the introduction of other kinds of fishes that will be adapted
to the particular condition of the pond or through measures taken
to so change those conditions that the fish will have a better chance
to obtain their prey. It is necessary then to study the comparative
efficiency of the different species of fish and to ascertain how the
efficiency of the more suitable species is affected by the various
conditions of depth, vegetation, and débris.

At the beginning of the fiscal year the Bureau issued an economic
circular giving an account of the various species of fish that play
an important part in mosquito extermination, and at the same time
it entered into cooperation with the Bureau of Entomology for a
careful investigation directed to the ends just stated. The inquiry
will be continued through the next fiscal vear.

In addition to its functions in mussel culture, and without hin-
drance to them, the Fairport station is being utilized effectively in
fish-cultural experimental work. Some of these experiments are
being conducted with the game fishes that are favorite objects of
cultural efforts. The purpose of these experiments is primarily to
ascertain the conditions under which the fish may be reared to a
market size in greatest numbers.

During the spring of 1915 unusual success was attained in the
hatching of the eggs of the buffalofish after artificial fertilization.
A number of the fry were placed in a new station pond to be kept
under observation. Notwithstanding the raw state of the pond and
other unfavorable conditions, more than 25 per cent of the fish,
or about 45,000, were found to have survived when the pond was
drawn in the fall, and some had attained a length of over 6 inches. A
good many of the fingerlings were liberated and others were retained
for further growth. A proportion of loss was experienced during the
winter season, but the experiments are still in progress. Not all has
been obtamed that could be desired, but, as the first attempt at rear-
ing buffalofish in capitivity, the success is such as to recommend the
continued experimentation with a form that is well known as a com-
mercial food fish of large size and of diminishing abundance.

Quite interesting results have been attained too with the channel
catfish (/ctalurus punctatus), a form that has hitherto baffled all
attempts at propagation. Just at the close of the fiscal year the
first successful attempt at propagation was in progress, but the fur-
ther history of the experiment is a matter for a later report.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 45

The Bureau is continually called upon for advice in the solution
of problems confronting those who are either engaging in fish culture
as a private venture or who are interested in developing the possi-
bilities of certain public waters. A station such as that at Fairport,
where the hatching and rearing of fishes to a size suitable for the
table can go hand in hand with systematic scientific observation and
experiment, renders a long needed and invaluable service in pro-
viding an experience supplemental to that gained in practical fish-
cultural work.

During the year the Bureau conducted a survey of the Bonneville
System of Utah with reference primarily to its fishery resources
and incidentally to the problems of fish protection in irrigation
ditches. This system comprises Utah Lake and Provo, Beaver,
Bear, Logan, and other rivers. Interesting and unexpected dis-
coveries were made of several new species of whitefish that appear
to be indigenous to the system, and all of which are good food fish.
Utah Lake is famous for its suckers and carp, tons of which are some-
times shipped to eastern markets, some going even to New York.
Generally speaking, however, the fish of the Bonneville System are
not plentiful enough to be of great commercial value except locally.
With the development of power plants and the growth of agriculture,
they are certain to become less numerous, unless due care is taken
to conserve the fish supply as far as may be done consistently with
the pursuit of other objects of greater economic importance.

SERVICE OF THE BIOLOGICAL LABORATORIES.

The seaside laboratories, which opened for the summer season just
before the close of the last fiscal year, were in active operation until
about the muddle of September, 1915. Various investigations were
pursued Chiefly through the employment of the temporary services of
specialists in several lines.

The Woods Hole, Mass., laboratory is intended to serve as a
nucleus for investigations of more direct reference to the New Eng-
land and Middle Atlantic fisheries as well as for more technical
investigations of general application. In some respects this estab-
lishment is better adapted for technical studies than any other lab-
oratory of the Bureau, and it is hoped to improve the facilities for
biophysical and biochemical studies that form essential phases of
certain fishery investigations. The lack of a permanent scientific
staff for this station causes its scientific operations to be confined
largely to the summer season, when temporary professional services
are most readily available. The principal topics of investigation
during the past season may be cited. There have been studies of
oysters, elsewhere referred to, which related chiefly to nutrition,
greening, and propagation. The studies of nutrition had especial
reference to the discovery of methods of fattening that might not
be open to the objections properly raised against some of the com-
mon practices. The investigation of greening, directed at_a condi-
tion which has served as a serious blight on oyster culture in certain
localities, and of “green gill,’ an entirely distinct phenomenon, was
also associated with this laboratory. Studies of the larval develop-
ment of fishes have been followed with results narrated elsewhere.

46 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

Other subjects of investigation were the parasites of fishes and the
effect of such parasites upon the vitality of the mdividuals; the
effect upon fishes of certain mineral salts which may be present either
as a normal constituent of some spring waters or as a consequence of
pollution; the metabolism of fishes and oxygen utilization, subjects
which have a bearing upon the propagation and rearing of fishes;
the bacteriology of fishes; the biology and the utilization of sea
mussels; and the possibilities of utilization of other waste fishes.
As usual the facilities of the laboratory were extended to a few inde-
pendent investigators whose studies were pursued without expense
to the Bureau.

The Beaufort, N. C., laboratory is a center for investigations that
look to the better development of the fisheries of the South Atlantic
coast. Allusion has been made to the study of the mullet and to
the survey of fishing grounds which has revealed opportunities for
offshore winter operation and contributed to the development of
a fishery that is as yet unduly limited. The successful experiments
in terrapin culture are also more fully described elsewhere. Special
attention is being devoted to the breeding habits of fishes, the larval
development of fishes, and, as opportunity offers, to the possibilities
of propagation of certain sea fishes which support important fisheries
in the South Atlantic States. Interesting observations were made
and a report was prepared dealing with the habits of certain species
of small fish that are denizens of brackish and fresh waters and
that are serviceable in the extermination of mosquito larve and
hence in the maintenance of public health.

Efficient study of the food of fishes and of the movements of
fishes, as directed by the search for food, or the avoidance of enemies,
demands an exact knowledge of the forms of animal and plant hfe
which may be encountered in the local waters or which may.be found
in the stomachs of the fishes. Careful systematic studies of certain
eroups of animal and plant life have therefore been in progress for
some time. During the past fiscal year there was completed for
publication a valuable report on the sharks and rays of the Beaufort
region; and another comprehensive report dealing with the decapod
crustacea, a group that includes the crabs and other forms of most
direct economic usefulness, has also been completed and submitted
for publication. Systematic studies of certain groups of fish para-
sites have been completed. A report of the alge of the region is
nearing completion, while the diatoms and protozoa, among the
lowest forms of minute plant and animal life, as well as the higher
fishes, are now subjects of investigation.

In the assurance that the development of commercial fisheries will
soon demand more strongly the conservation of important shellfish,
serious attention is being given to the life history of the quahaug or
hard clam and the principal crustacean forms.

The Beaufort laboratory has also been found a favorable place
for the prosecution of certain special problems that have not a
particular regional significance. At this place there are pursued
investigations of the toxicity of certain chemicals to marine borers
and of the protection of wood against these disastrous pests, in which
studies the Bureau has enjoyed the cooperation of the forest products
laboratory of the Forest Service and the sympathetic interest of
railway companies and other commercial bodies.

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 47

The enlargement of the island upon which the laboratory is located,
in consequence of the deposition of material dredged by the War
Department from nearby channels; the recent additions to the
building authorized by Congress; and the grading and sodding of
large portions of the island have added greatly to the appearance
and to the stability of the property. The station would be of much
greater practical service to the fishing industries of the coast were it
enabled, through the provision of an adequate permanent staff, to
carry on more extensive permanent experimental work. Investi-
gations temporarily pursued serve a useful purpose in laying the basis
for practical work, but it is usually only through continuous experi
mentation that the inevitable difficulties of new practical work are
discovered and successfully overcome, as must finally be done to
pave the way to substantial benefits. The terrapin experiments
offer a concrete example of a businesslike mode of procedure in
fishery experiment work, while other opportunities are awaiting
with perhaps greater possibilities.

The Key West, Fla., laboratory becomes nearer to realization with
the developments of the past fiscal year, during which the Govern-
ment has assumed title to the site and Congress has provided the
necessary additional appropriation for its construction. The pre-
liminary sketch plans were completed and at the close of the year
the final plans were in course of preparation. Bids are expected to
be sought by advertisement at no distant date. The laboratory site
is properly chosen near a base of supplies accessible by water and rail
and the seat of important commercial fisheries. Situated as it is,
entirely remote from the influence of fresh-water rivers and on the
thoroughfare from gulf to ocean, the conditions should be eminently
suitable for work with marine forms. It is hoped to employ the most
substantial method of construction, not only because the peculiar
conditions of the geographic location demand it but because it is
regarded as sound business policy to provide against the continued
necessity for repairs and unnecessary operating costs.

When this laboratory is in operation and provided with a staff of
trained investigators, the service rendered by the Bureau to the
fisheries of the Gulf and extreme South Atlantic coasts will be of
more palpable benefit. Some of the evident opportunities are to be
found in the study of the artificial propagation of the green turtle,
the investigation of such useful forms as the spmy lobster and the
stone crab, the fostering of the struggling industry of sponge culture,
and the study of the important food fishes of the Gulf of Mexico and
Straits of Florida.

The Fairport, Iowa, station, having a permanent scientific staff,
is in active operation during the entire year. During the summer
season its staff is temporarily augmented in order that particular
problems arising from the regular investigations at this station or
related to the other activities of the Bureau may be attacked by
specialists in particular lines of study. As at the marine laboratories,
the facilities of the station are extended to approved independent
investigators, who, as table occupants, pursue their researches without
cost to the Government.

The propagation of mussels, the fish-cultural experiment work,
the investigations of the food of fishes, and certain studies of condi-
tions in the Mississippi River, as elsewhere referred to, are among the

48 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES.

subjects under consideration at Fairport during the year. One of the
investigations pursued at this laboratory was of particular interest
in establishing the fact that mussels may absorb nutritive sub-
stances in solution in the water not only through the alimentary tract
but directly through the surface cells. Other studies im progress
relate to the propagation of species of mussels not yet susceptible to
practical cultural methods, the relations of fishes and mussels in
nature, the possibilities of rearing mussels without parasitism, the
food of mussels, the copepod parasites of fishes, and the constitution
of the blood of fishes.

The equipment of the station in ponds and other facilities for the
efficient prosecution of its work has been materially increased during
the year. A bulletin descriptive of the equipment and functions
of the Fairport station has just been published.

MISCELLANEOUS INVESTIGATIONS.

The Bureau has taken advantage of an opportunity to utilize the
services of a specialist traveling abroad to secure information regard-
ing recent significant developments in foreign pearl fisheries and
expects to have a report available within the next year.

The imperative necessity for seeking new sources of potash for use
in agricultural and commercial enterprises has led to the sudden
development of an industry of kelp harvesting, especially in the
region of San Diego, Cal. Simultaneously there arose questions as to
the possible effect of the cutting of kelp upon the fisheries. Just
before the close of the fiscal year it had been arranged to begin a
study of the kelp fields and the method of harvesting with the view of
securing definite information as to the relations of fish and shellfish
to the kelp groves as they might be affected by the operations of
harvesting.

For two or three years the Bureau has been searching for suitable
supplies of hydroids, or the ‘“‘sea moss” of commerce, which had
previously been imported from Europe in considerable quantities.
The dyed product is used for decorative and millinery purposes, and
the importations for the only year for which statistics are available
(1909) amounted to more than 300,000 pounds, valued at $47,558.
In connection with the survey of the Chesapeake Bay, considerable
quantities were located at depths of 18 to 30 fathoms, and experiments
were made to devise efficient methods of collecting. An experienced
manufacturer accompanied the investigator on one of the cruises and
pronounced the material of excellent quality. Further observations
must be made to determine the seasons when the moss may be found
in greatest abundance and highest quality.

ne of the most serious handicaps upon the halibut fishery of the
northwest coast is the occurrence of ‘‘mushy”’ halibut, which is
especially characteristic of certain grounds and which begins to be
noted wm early summer, increasing in prevalence until the unmarketable
fish form so Ae a proportion of the catch as to compel the abandon-
ment of the fishery or the removal to other and less accessible grounds
for the remainder of the season. Through the study of material
supplied to a specialist in the employ of the Bureau, it has been
ascertained that the “mushy” condition is caused by a minute
protozoan parasite which multiplies abundantly and brings about

REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 49

a degeneration of the muscle tissue. As soon as it is possible to do
so, the Bureau will undertake a more extensive investigation in the
field in order to learn the distribution of the parasite, the conditions
that bring about its occasional increase in abundance, and any pos-
sible method of remedy or control. ‘

The cooperative work with the State Geological and Natural
History Survey of Wisconsin in an inquiry into the biological and
physical conditions of life in inclosed waters has been continued.
Progress has been made upon the reports of investigations of Lake
Champlaim and those of the lakes of Washington and Idaho.

In response to a widespread interest in the subject of frog culture,
evidenced by the daily receipt of inquiries for information and
advice in the matter, there is in preparation a report dealing with
the natural history of frogs. Field studies are also bemg conducted.

An interesting test was made in connection with en experiment in
rearing fresh-water mussels at the Fairport station. While the
commercial mussels are native to rivers and not to still waters, some
fishes which had been infected with the glochidia of mussels in the
way ordinarily followed in practical operations were subsequently
retained in floating crates and others were placed in station ponds.
After two seasons of growth it was found possible to cut and finish
buttons from the shells of these artificially propagated mussels.
The rate of growth was much more rapid than had been expected.
It is not assumed that mussels can be reared commercially in such
waters, but the experiment is of imterest and value as throwing
hight upon the nature of the results to be expected from the practical
operation in public waters.

While the Federal Government exercises no jurisdiction over the
pollutions cf waters as affecting fisheries, the Bureau can render a
very practical service in the investigation of reported cases of pol-
lution where the importance of the stream and the alleged extent
of the damage done is such as to warrant tts taking cognizance of
the matter. In some instances the reports are found to be without
due foundation, while the agencies complained of are exercising all
proper care. A report of the actual facts based upon a caretul
and unprejudiced examination of conditions serves to allay suspi-
cions and prevent the further existence of dissatisfaction. In other
cases the conditions are observed to be as alleged, but abatement is
effected through a clear and convincing presentation of the facts to
the offending parties, coupled with suggestions as to practic.] reme-
dies and an appeal for cooperation. Again, there may be encoun-
tered those who are carelessly permitting industrial wastes to render
a stream uninhabitable for the more desirable fishes and who are
not amenable to reasonable suggestions. In such cases the findings
of the Bureau can still serve a useful purpose in directing public
attention to a wanton abuse and in reinforcing those who m:y be
interested to seek relief by process of law. The Bureau has within
the year conducted a number of investigations of this kind and the
reports have been placed as promptly as possible m the bands of
the parties interested.

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