Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Michigan (Fertilized Egg)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
424 Waugoshance Turbidity Lethal 174 110
Point
Details
Carp spawning increased turbidity so much in one area that bass nests
were unsuccessful.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
(Fertilized Egg)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
411 Temperature Lethal 118 110
Details
Egg mortality of smallmouth bass eggs collected at the 16cell stage at 19°C,
transferred to water at 17°C, 20°C, 23°C, 26°C and 29°C, and covered ranges
35% at 23°C, 84% at 17°C, and 95% at 29°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
412 Temperature Lethal 135 110
Oxygen Limit
Details
Survival of smallmouth bass eggs to 14 days at 20°C was: 50% at 8.7 ppm DO,
39%42% at 4.4 ppm, and at 25°C it was 29%31% at 4.4 ppm. There was no egg
survival at 2.5 ppm, and almost no hatch at 1.2 ppm DO.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
413 Cayuga Lake Water Level Example 115 110
Turbidity Example
Details
Sudden increases in stream level and turbidity did not seem to damage
smallmouth bass nests with eggs, sac, or black fry (unless flood
proportions were reached).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
414 Ohio Water Level Lethal 237 110
Details
High water levels destroy smallmouth bass nests.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
417 Cayuga Lake Turbidity Example 115 110
Water Level Lethal
Details
Smallmouth bass eggs are laid in shallower, turbid water than when water
is clear. Increased drying could exist if water levels recede.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
418 Pred/Prey Example 110 -
Details
Carp, common suckers, white perch and sunfishes prey on smallmouth
bass eggs and fry.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
419 Ontario Temperature Lethal 126 110
Details
- A rapid rise in temperature from 16.1°-23.0°C (just before hatching)
resulted in heavy mortality, although newly hatched fry were not affected.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
420 Saskatchewan Temperature Lethal 155 110
Details
- Any drop in smallmouth bass temperatures below 15.6°C (particularly for an
extended period) may result in nest desertion, death of eggs (and to a
lesser extent) death of fry which have not risen from the nests.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
421 Temperature Lethal 228 110
Details
Smallmouth bass egg survival was uniformly high at 15°25°C, but
survival dropped at lower or higher temperatures. No survival existed
at 10°C or 30°C and only 45% of eggs survived at 12.5°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1464 Depth Characteristic 0.30.9 m 1023 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass nests are usually in water 0.30.9 m deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1465 Depth Limit 7 m 775 1011
1055
Details
Smallmouth bass nests may be built in water up to 7 m deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1472 Cayuga Lake, Temperature Characteristic 13°25°C 115 1011
New York 1023
Details
Smallmouth bass embryos develop normally at temperatures of 13°25°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1473 Temperature Limit 115 1011
1045
Details
Extreme fluctuations in temperature cause smallmouth bass embryo mortality
from acute thermal shock. Fluctuation also cause males (the caretakers) to
leave the nest unprotected from predators and/or fungus may grow.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1475 Oxygen Limit 135 1011
Details
In a laboratory study, 42% of the smallmouth bass embryos survived >14
days at 4.4 ppm DO and 29°C. No embryos survived at levels <2.5 ppm.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1476 Oxygen Requirement >6 ppm 1016 1011
Details
DO levels >6 ppm are necessary for maximum smallmouth bass embryo
survival.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1479 Water Level Limit 1063 1011
Temperature Limit 1045
Details
Rising water may flush smallmouth bass nest areas with cold water. This causes
nest desertion and halts embryo development.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1480 Water Level Limit 159 1011
Temperature Limit 1045
Details
- Falling water levels may drive guarding males off, limit water circulation
around eggs, and increase predation. This results in lower smallmouth bass
reproductive success.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Erie (Juvenile)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
447 Temperature Prefer 244 110
Details
Temperature experiments in a laboratory with fingerling smallmouth bass
from Lake Erie were: 29°31°C in the summer, 26°30°C in the fall, 24°28°C
in the winter, and 22°28°C in the spring.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Huron (Juvenile)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
386 South Bay Temperature Example 228 110
Details
First-year growth of smallmouth bass in South Bay was more rapid in warmer
summers.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
(Juvenile)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
382 Iowa Water Level Example 156 110
Area of Water Example
Details
In the Des Moines River, Iowa, best growth of smallmouth bass was during
the year with the lowest, average water levels. Correlations between water
levels and growth increments of age-1, age-2, and age-3 bass were all
negative, but significant.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
383 Ohio Water Motion Example 237 110
Area of Water Example Streams
Temperature Example
Details
In Ohio streams, slowest smallmouth bass growth was in years of high stream
flow and lower temperatures.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
438 Cayuga Lake Movement Characteristic 115 110
Phys. Assoc. Characteristic
Area of Water Example
Temperature Example
Details
In Cayuga Lake, bass congregate along limestone ridges. They often arrive
in early September when temperatures were only slightly lower. Larger
bass form less-compact aggregations then bass 150200 mm long.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
449 Temperature Prefer 229 110
Details
Preferred temperatures of smallmouth bass acclimated at various tempera-
tures were: 20.2°C from 15°C, 22.9°C from 18°C, 26.5°C from 21°C, 29.8°C
from 24°C, 30.1°C from 27°C, and 31.3°C from 30°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
450 Temperature Lethal 198 110
Details
The 96hour LD50 temperatures for juvenile smallmouth bass (29 g mean
weight) acclimated at various temperatures were: 1.6°C from 15°C, 3.7°C
from 18°C, 6.7°C from 22°C, and 10.1°C from 26°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
454 Oxygen Tolerate 40 ppm 117 110
Details
- Smallmouth bass fingerlings up to 127 mm long withstood 40 ppm oxygen
with no distress.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
456 pH Example 230 110
Movement Example
Details
No significant difference in smallmouth bass activity was observed
at a pH of 7, 6, 5, and 4. However, more testing and acclimation is
needed.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
463 Pred/Prey Characteristic 110
Details
By the time bass are 40 mm long, they eat insects and small fish.
Fish and crayfish soon form most of the food.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
472 Arizona Pred/Prey Example 255 110
Details
In Bull Shoal's Lake, Arizona, young shad were the major summer food,
centrarchids and crayfish in late autumn and winter, and mayflies in
spring.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
646 Pred/Prey Characteristic 111 -
Details
A number of fish species feed on walleye fry. These species include yellow
perch, white bass, yellow bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow smelt, stugers,
bullheads, burbot and (most importantly) northern pike.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1419 Pred/Prey Characteristic 1025 1011
115
Details
Juvenile smallmouth bass eat larger insects, crayfish, and fish.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1433 Light Avoid 1023 1011
771
Details
Smallmouth bass exhibit strong, coverseeking behavior and prefer
protection from light during all life stages.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1497 Iowa Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 156 1011
1049
Details
Juvenile smallmouth bass spend most of their time in quiet water near or
under a dark shelter (brush or rocks).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1498 Water Motion Prefer 1011 -
Depth Characteristic
Details
Juvenile and adult smallmouth bass prefer low velocity water near a current,
but juveniles are often found in slightly shallower water than adults.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1499 Temperature Prefer 28°31°C 751 1011
244
Details
In laboratory studies, juvenile smallmouth bass preferred temperatures
~28°-31°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1500 Temperature Optimum 25°29°C 198 1011
229
Details 1058
Maximum smallmouth bass growth occurred at 25°29°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1501 Temperature Lethal 35°C 229 1011
Details
The upper lethal temperature for juvenile smallmouth bass is ~35°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1502 Movement Limit 20°C 1023 1011
Details
Activity of juvenile smallmouth bass is reduced below 20°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1503 Temperature Limit 16°C 198 1011
Details
Little growth of juvenile smallmouth bass occurs below 16°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1504 Middle Snake Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 164 1011
River
Details
Juvenile smallmouth bass seek shelter in crevices and fissures of the rock
substrate at very low temperatures.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1505 Temperature Lethal ~0°C 198 1011
Details
Lower lethal temperatures for juveniles occur near freezing.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Ontario (Larva)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1491 St. Lawrence Depth Limit 4.66.1 m 150 1011
River
Details
Some smallmouth bass fry may be found in water 4.66.1 m deep.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
(Larva)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
385 Temperature Example 200 110
Oxygen Example
Details
Smallmouth bass fry (11 days after hatching) averaged 12.9 mm at 25°C and
4.4 ppm oxygen, 9.4 mm at 20°C and 4.4 ppm oxygen, and 9.9 mm at 20°C and
8.7 ppm DO. A temperature drop from 23°C to 14.4°C in 3 days resulted in
decreased growth of young bass.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
413 Cayuga Lake Water Level Example 115 110
Turbidity Example
Details
Sudden increases in stream level and turbidity did not seem to damage
smallmouth bass nests with eggs, sac, or black fry (unless flood
proportions were reached).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
414 Ohio Water Level Lethal 237 110
Details
- High water levels destroy smallmouth bass nests.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
415 Iowa Water Level Lethal 222 110
Pred/Prey Characteristic
Details
Floods destroy the microcrustaceans needed by smallmouth bass fry.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
416 Water Motion Prefer 179 110
Details
Smallmouth bass fry selected a flow of 9 cm/sec in preference to quiet
water, but could not be maintained in flows of 27 cm/sec.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
418 Pred/Prey Example 110 -
Details
Carp, common suckers, white perch, and sunfishes prey on smallmouth bass
eggs and fry.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
419 Ontario Temperature Lethal 126 110
Details
A rapid rise in temperature from 16.1°-23.0°C (just before hatching)
resulted in heavy mortality, although newly hatched fry were not affected.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
420 Saskatchewan Temperature Lethal 155 110
Details
Any drop in smallmouth bass temperatures below 15.6°C, (particularly for
an extended period) may result in nest desertion, death of eggs (and to a
lesser extent) death of fry which have not risen from the nests.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
425 Ohio Pred/Prey Limit 190 110
Details
Survival of smallmouth bass fry may be low if entomostracans are scarce.
Backswimmers, dragonfly larvae, cannibalism, and Ichthyophthirius may also
cause fry losses.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
455 pH Tolerate 117 110
Details
Smallmouth bass fry tolerated sudden pH changes from 9.36.0 and 7.7-9.7.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
462 Pred/Prey Characteristic 110 -
Details
The first food of young bass is usually copepods and cladocerans and
dipteran larvae and rotifers.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
546 pH Lethal 117 110
Details
Largemouth bass fry were less resistant than smallmouth fry to high
pH values.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
646 Pred/Prey Characteristic 111 -
Details
A number of fish species feed on walleye fry. These species include yellow
perch, white bass, yellow bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow smelt, saugers,
bullheads, burbot and (most importantly) northern pike.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1418 Pred/Prey Characteristic 1011 -
Details
Smallmouth bass fry feed on microcrustaceans.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1433 Light Avoid 1023 1011
771
Details
Smallmouth bass exhibit strong, coverseeking behavior, and prefer
protection from light during all life stages.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1481 Temperature Optimum 25°29°C 164 1011
1058
Details
The optimum temperature range for smallmouth bass growth in the laboratory
was 25°29°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1482 Temperature Optimum 751 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass fry inhabit areas with near-optimum temperatures in summer.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1483 - Area of Water Characteristic 1049 1011
1023
Details
Smallmouth bass fry use calm, shallow, marginal areas with rocks and
vegetation in summer.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1484 Temperature Limit 35°C 1058 1011
Details
Growth of smallmouth bass fry ceases at 35°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1485 Temperature Lethal 38°C 179 1011
Details
The upper lethal temperature of smallmouth bass is ~38°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1486 Movement Limit 1023 1011
Details
Activity levels of smallmouth bass fry drop at 20°C, and swimming is
greatly reduced at 10°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1487 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 115 1011
188
Details
Smallmouth bass fry seek rocky shelters in littoral or shore areas when
the water temperature is 7°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1488 Temperature Lethal 4°C 179 1011
Details
- The lower lethal temperature for smallmouth bass fry is ~4°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1490 Depth Characteristic 1025 1011
212
Details
Most smallmouth bass fry remain in shallow water.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1492 Water Motion Limit 200 mm/sec 179 1011
Details
- Smallmouth bass fry 2025 mm long cannot maintain themselves in current
velocities >200 mm/sec.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1493 Turbidity Limit 2,000 JTU 1130 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass fry cannot tolerate and are displaced at high
turbidities (2,000 JTU) combined with an increase in water velocity.
However, they are not displaced at moderate turbidities (250 JTU).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1494 Oxygen Limit <1 ppm 1016 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass fry cease feeding at DO levels <1 ppm.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1495 Oxygen Lethal <2.5 ppm 135 1011
Details
Survival of smallmouth bass fry is low at levels <2.5 ppm.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1496 Oxygen Optimum >6 ppm 1011 -
Details
Levels >6 ppm are considered optimum for smallmouth bass fry.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Ontario (Non-spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
446 Depth Example 152 110
Water Motion Example Storms
Details
After storms, smallmouth bass were taken in water 2324 m deep in Lake
Ontario.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Erie (Non-spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
427 Movement Characteristic 223 110
Details
Tagged returns of smallmouth bass indicated limited movement.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
448 Temperature Prefer 244 110
Details
In laboratory experiments with adult smallmouth bass from Lake Erie,
temperatures were: 30°31°C in summer, 21°27°C in fall, 13°26°C in winter,
and 18°26°C in spring.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Huron (Non-spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
387 South Bay Temperature Example 233 110
Details
Annual increments of age-3 to age-4 smallmouth bass in South Bay, Lake
Huron (and in several other waters) were related to mean surface
temperatures from July-September. This relationship was not evident in
Lake Opeongo, nor for older bass in South Bay.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
429 Manitoulin Island Movement Characteristic 210 110
Details
Tagged returns of smallmouth bass indicated limited movement.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Michigan (Non-spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
388 Waugoshance Temperature Example 174 110
Point
Details
Slow growth of smallmouth bass in Lake Michigan (1950-51) was related to
cold, rainy summers.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
426 Waugoshance Movement Characteristic 174 110
Point
Details
Tagged returns of smallmouth bass indicated limited movement.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
465 Pred/Prey Example 121 110
Details
Alewives were a major forage in Lake Michigan.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
(Non-spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
376 Wisconsin Pred/Prey Example 209 109
288
Details
Introduction of muskellunge into two Wisconsin lakes eliminated most of the
yellow perch and largemouth bass >100 mm long. Enough muskellunge remained,
apparently in secure habitats, to reproduce successfully each year.
Smallmouth bass were relatively secure from muskellunge predation and
increased in abundance as largemouth bass decreased.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
377 Nebraska Alkalinity Tolerate <900 ppm CO3 167 110
(Hatchery) Sodium Tolerate 200 ppm K+Na
Potassium Tolerate 200 ppm K+Na
Details
Smallmouth bass were suggested as suitable for stocking in slightly alkaline
lakes (<900 ppm total carbonate alkalinity and 200 ppm K+Na).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
378 West Virginia pH Example 142 110
Conductivity Example
Pred/Prey Example
Details
A positive correlation between smallmouth bass growth and pH, conductivity,
and higher sucker populations has been reported.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
379 Missouri Area of Water Example Pond 254 110
Turbidity Example
Details
The growth rate of smallmouth bass was inversely related to clay turbidity.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
380 Quebec Eutrophication Example 158 110
Details
Smallmouth bass growth was better in eutrophic waters of the Montreal
plain than in oligotrophic waters of the Laurentides.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
381 Hatchery Eutrophication Example 199 110
Oxygen Limit -
Clarity Limit
Amnonia Limit
Details
Growth of smallmouth bass was slower in fertilized ponds than in less-fertile
ponds. Increased diurnal DO flux, decreased transparency, or increased
ammonia may be pertinent factors.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
384 Temperature Optimum 28°29°C 245 110
Details
Maximum smallmouth bass growth occurred at 28°29°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
422 Missouri Water Level Limit 214 110
Temperature Limit
Details
Floods and low temperatures were related to smallmouth bass low year-class
success in Big Piney River, Missouri.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
428 Movement Characteristic 207 110
150
Details 151
Tagged returns of smallmouth bass indicated limited movement.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
430 Hatchery Movement Characteristic 250 110
Area of Water Example
Details
Hatchery-reared bass moved more (up to 113 km) than marked native
bass in Massie Creek, Ohio.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
431 Movement Characteristic 213 110
Area of Water Example
Phys. Assoc. Example
Details
Stream disturbance by gravel operations caused bass to desert their home
range. In water 100-2845 m deep, 15 tagged bass voluntarily moved to other
pools and later homed.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
432 Temperature Characteristic 196 110
Water Motion Characteristic
Area of Water Characteristic
Clarity Characteristic
Details
Smallmouth bass are usually found in cool, flowing streams and large, clear lakes.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
433 Wisconsin Depth Optimum >9 m 196 110
Temperature Optimum 239
Clarity Optimum Clear, No Color
Phys. Assoc. Optimum -
Pred/Prey Optimum
Details
Ideal smallmouth bass lakes are: >40; >9 m deep and thermally stratified;
not dark colored and clear; scantily vegetated; large shoal areas of rock,
gravel, or sand with gravel patches; amply foraged (small fish, crayfish,
or insects); and moderate in temperature during summer.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
434 Area of Water Example Streams 201 110
Temperature Optimum
Clarity Optimum Clear, No Color
Phys. Assoc. Optimum Gravel, Rock
Water Motion Optimum
Details
Smallmouth bass streams should have a good current; clear, cool water;
and a good gravel or rock bottom.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
435 Phys. Assoc. Example Shelter 201 110
Area of Water Example Streams
Details
Stream bass readily used artificial shelters.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
436 Phys. Assoc. Prefer 164 110
Area of Water Example Streams
Details
A definite preference by smallmouth bass for a broken rock substrate over
solid rock or sand was shown in the Middle Snake River.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
437 Movement Characteristic 196 110
Temperature Example
Details
During winter, smallmouth bass tend to be inactive in the northern portion
of their range.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
438 Cayuga Lake Movement Characteristic 115 110
Phys. Assoc. Characteristic
Area of Water Example
Temperature Example
Details
In Cayuga Lake, bass congregate along limestone ridges. They often arrive
in early September when temperatures were only slightly lower. Larger
bass form less-compact aggregations then bass 150200 mm long.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
439 Temperature Example 164 110
Depth Example
Area of Water Example
Details
In the Middle Snake River, smallmouth bass were not found in shallow
water in the late fall after water temperatures reached 15.5°C, but only
in quiet pools at least 3.6 m deep. Most of the fish remained under
rocks at temperatures <6.7°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
440 Ohio Temperature Example <10°C 131 110
Movement Characteristic Lethargy
Details
Smallmouth bass tend to be lethargic at temperatures <10°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
442 Lake Simcoe Phys. Assoc. Characteristic Weed Beds 122 110
Details
In August, adult bass were found mostly in Potamogeton weed beds.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
443 Water Level Example - 201 110
Area of Water Example Streams
Water Motion Example
Phys. Assoc. Prefer
Light Prefer
Details
Stream bass prefer shelter as water velocities increase. When water
levels decrease they seek darker areas for shelter.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
444 Cayuga Lake Depth Example 115 110
Temperature Example
Details
In Cayuga Lake, most bass in the summer were taken in the epilimnion, water
depth was no deeper than 12 m, but a few were taken at 24 m deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
445 Cayuga Lake Pred/Prey Example 208 110
Movememt Example
Depth Example
Details
Smallmouth bass at a depth of 17-24 m in Cayuga Lake were thought to
be following alewives.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
451 Temperature Prefer 215 110
Details
The final preferred temperature for smallmouth bass was 28°C, but
(in the field) smallmouth bass were usually at 20.3°21.3°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
452 Temperature Limit 133 110
Details
The LD50 temperature for smallmouth bass was 29°32°C, but smallmouth
bass have been seen in 34°C water.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
453 Oxygen Lethal 0.87, 0.96 ppm 249 110
Temperature Example 21°C
Details
At 21°C, lethal concentrations of DO were 0.87 ppm and 0.96 ppm.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
457 Movement Example 164 110
Light Characteristic
Depth Characteristic
Details
Smallmouth bass tend to be inactive at night. At midday, they may
remain quietly sunning in shallow water.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
458 Ontario Movement Example 219 110
Light Characteristic -
Depth Characteristic
Details
At night, smallmouth bass move to deeper water, rest on the bottom, and
are often readily approached by divers.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
459 Ontario Pred/Prey Characteristic 219 110
Light Characteristic
Details
Smallmouth bass feed opportunistically during the day, but peak feeding
occurs at dusk and early sunlight.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
460 Pred/Prey Characteristic 196 110
Details
The smallmouth bass is essentially carnivorous with small amounts of
vegetable matter taken probably by accident.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
461 Ohio Pred/Prey Characteristic 190 110
Light Characteristic
Clarity Requirement
Details
Bass are dependent upon sight to feed.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
464 Oneida Lake Pred/Prey Example 216 110
Details
Alewives were a major forage in Oneida Lake.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
466 Pred/Prey Example 196 124 110
164 154
Details 206
Where crayfish are abundant, they frequently comprise over 2/3 of the food. 182
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
467 Pred/Prey Prefer 178 110
Details
Smallmouth bass took crayfish and tadpoles in preference to bluegills and
golden shiners.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
468 Competitors Example 206 110
Details
Although smallmouth bass eat many of the same items as walleyes, major
use of crayfish by bass made competition minimal.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
469 Maine Competitors Example 116 110
Details
Smallmouth bass will replace trout and salmon in marginal trout lakes.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
470 Competitors Example 251 110
Area of Water Example Warmwater
Ponds
Details
- In warmwater ponds, smallmouth bass could not compete successfully with
largemouth bass, bluegills, green sunfish, and bullheads.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
471 Cayuga Lake Pred/Prey Example 115 110
Details
There is little seasonal change in diet. Bass were still feeding in late
November but less than in September.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
472 Arizona Pred/Prey Example 255 110
Details
In Bull Shoal's Lake, Arizona, young shad were the major summer food;
centrarchids and crayfish, in late autumn and winter; and mayflies
in spring.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
473 Ontario Pred/Prey Example 188 110
Details
- Bass stomachs examined in midApril in Ontario were shrunken and full of
mucous. This indicated little or no winter feeding.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
474 Quebec Pred/Prey Example 158 110
Temperature Example
Details
Bass do not feed in winter.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
475 Pred/Prey Example 243 110
Temperature Example
Details
Bass begin active feeding when temperatures near 15°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
646 Pred/Prey Characteristic 111 -
Details
A number of fish species feed on walleye fry. These species include yellow
perch, white bass, yellow bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow smelt, saugers,
bullheads, burbot and (most importantly) northern pike.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
658 Competitors Example 63 -
Details
Walleye compete with such piscivorous fish as northern pike, yellow perch,
sauger, and smallmouth bass. Northern pike is probably the most important.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
659 Minnesota Competitors Example 480 110
Details
After smallmouth bass were introduced into some northeastern Minnesota
walleye lakes, bass generally became the dominant species (over walleye)
in boulder and rubblelined lakes with high shoreline development factors
and low populations of minnows and small fish. However, in lakes with
little shoreline irregularity; moderate to extensive shoreline; shoal
areas of gravel, sand and muck; and sizeable populations of forage
fish; walleyes remained dominant.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
765 Competitors Example 63 112
Details
For food, perch may compete with any or all other predatory fishes present
in the same water. These fish include brook trout, ciscoes, lake whitefish,
basses (Morone spp. and Micropterus spp.), crappies, and bluegill.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
770 Pred/Prey Example 63 -
112
Details
Almost all warm- to cold-water predatory fish will eat perch, including basses
(Morone spp. and Micropterus spp.), sunfish, crappies, walleye, sauger, pike,
muskellunge, and lake trout.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1420 Pred/Prey Characteristic 1011 -
Details
Adults primarily feed on fish and crayfish in both lakes and streams.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1426 Area of Water Example 110 1011
Phys. Assoc. Optimum
Details
Optimum riverine habitat for smallmouth bass is cool, clear, mid-order
streams >10.5 m wide.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1427 Area of Water Example 1056 1011
Phys. Assoc. Optimum 1055
1023
Details 1053
Optimum riverine habitat for smallmouth bass is deep pools, moderate current,
and a gravel or rubble substrate.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1428 Area of Water Example 1060 1011
Phys. Assoc. Optimum 1029
1055
Details 1023
Streams with gradients of 0.754.70 m/km, (providing alternating 1028
pools and riffles), support the largest stream populations of
smallmouth bass.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1429 Depth Optimum >1.2 m 1055 1011
1050
Details 1021
Standing crop is generally largest in pools deeper than 1.2 m.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1430 Area of Water Example 129 1011
Phys. Assoc. Optimum 1023
Depth Optimum >9 m 771
1053
Details
Optimum lacustrine habitat is characterized by large, clear lakes and
reservoirs with an average depth >9 m with rocky shoals.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1431 Northeastern Depth Characteristic 1033 1011
Wisconsin 129
Ontario
Details
Smallmouth bass are found almost exclusively in the epilimnion during summer
stratification in northeastern Wisconsin and Ontario.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1432 Cayuga Lake, Depth Characteristic £12 m 115 1011
New York
Details
Smallmouth bass frequent depths up to 12 m in all seasons in northern
New York.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1433 Light Avoid 1023 1011
771
Details
Smallmouth bass exhibit strong, coverseeking behavior and prefer
protection from light during all life stages.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1434 Light Avoid 1023 1011
Details
Deep, dark, quiet water is used for smallmouth bass cover.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1435 Illinois Phys. Assoc. Example 1041 1011
1035
Details
Bass use all forms of submerged cover (boulders, rocks, stumps, root
masses, trees, and crevices) without preference.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1436 Michigan pH Example 5.7 1020 110
Details
Smallmouth bass occur at pH levels of 5.7.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1437 Iowa pH Example 9 1050 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass occur at pH levels of 9.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1438 Missouri pH Optimum 7.98.1 1028 1011
Details
The optimum pH level for smallmouth bass is 7.98.1.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1439 Area of Water Example 1036 1011
Dissolved Optimum 100350 ppm 759
Solids
Details
Smallmouth bass populations are more ppm productive in clearer, less-
fertile reservoirs several years after impoundment with low total
dissolved solids (TDS=100350 ppm).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1440 Oxygen Optimum >6 ppm 1016 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass require >6 ppm DO for optimal growth.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1441 Oxygen Limit 1016 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass production rates are reduced by 10% when the amount of
oxygen is lowered to 3 ppm at 15°C. Production rates are reduced by 20%
if oxygen is lowered to 4 ppm at 20°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1442 Oxygen Lethal ~1 ppm at 1016 1011
20°-25°C 249
Details
Smallmouth bass frequently die at DO concentrations approaching 1 ppm at
20°25°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1443 Cayuga Lake, Turbidity Tolerate 115 1011
New York 222
Details
Smallmouth bass can apparently tolerate periodic turbidity.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1444 Tennessee Turbidity Characteristic £25 JTU 1035 1011
Details
A typical smallmouth bass habitat has very low turbidity (usually
£25 JTU) and almost never >75 JTU (except under flood conditions
when turbidity is sometimes as high as 250 JTU).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1445 Area of Water Example 182 1011
Water Motion Characteristic 164
1028
Details 1053
In streams, adults smallmouth bass occupy pools or deep areas behind rocks
where there is no perceptible current.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1446 Water Motion Characteristic 222 1011
164
Details
Smallmouth bass adults are often near the edge of the current during the day.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1447 Movement Characteristic 1015 1011
164
Details 1045
Movement of smallmouth bass adults in streams is restricted during a single
season to a single pool.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1448 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 63 1011
Depth Characteristic <12 m 1023
Details
In lakes and reservoirs, smallmouth bass adults often use cooler areas
(such as dropoffs) away from vegetation and in water <12 m deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1449 Tennessee Depth Example 1035 1011
Details
In a Tennessee River reservoir, smallmouth bass adults were frequently
in water >10 m deep during the summer.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1450 Tennessee Water Motion Characteristic 10.932.0 cm/s 1035 1011
Details
Seasonal mean current velocity in bass habitats varied from 10.9-32.0 cm/sec.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1451 Temperature Limit 1055 1011
751
Details
Temperature may be the single most important factor limiting distribution
of smallmouth bass.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1452 Temperature Characteristic 751 1011
Details
During summer, bass inhabit warmer, shoreline areas of large lakes in the
north and deeper, cooler waters in the south.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1453 Temperature Limit 10°14°C 1023 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass growth begins when water temperatures reaches 10°14°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1454 Montana Temperature Prefer 21°27°C 1021 1011
Details
Field data indicate that smallmouth bass adults prefer temperatures of
~21°27°C in the summer.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1455 Temperature Prefer 1043 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass acclimated at 2.2°30.0°C selected temperatures of 20°-32°C
in laboratory tests.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1456 Temperature Prefer 28°31°C 215 1011
1128
Details
Adult bass in the laboratory preferred temperatures of 28°-31°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1457 Temperature Optimum 26°29°C 1051 1011
1058
Details 1065
Optimal smallmouth bass growth rates in the lab occurred at temperatures
of 26°29°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1458 Temperature Lethal 32.2°C 1023 1011
Details
Upper lethal temperatures for adult smallmouth bass were >32.2°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1459 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 115 1011
164
Details
When temperatures drop to 15°20°C, adult smallmouth bass seek deep,
dark areas.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1460 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 1023 1011
1058
Details
At ~10°C, bass become inactive and seek shelter.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1461 Middle Snake Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 164 1011
River
Details
At 6°7°C, most smallmouth bass are beneath the rock substrate, with few
remaining on the top.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1462 Temperature Lethal ~0°C 1023 1011
Details
The lower lethal temperature is near freezing.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1463 Temperature Prefer 751 1011
Details
Bass will congregate around warm springs in winter, when available.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1498 Water Motion Prefer 1011
Depth Characteristic
Details
Juvenile and adult smallmouth bass prefer low-velocity water near a
current, but juveniles are often found in slightly shallower water than
adults.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1506 Turbidity Optimum £25 JTU 1011
Area of Water Example
Phys. Assoc. Optimum
Temperature Optimum 21°29°C
Details
Optimal riverine habitat for smallmouth bass is characterized by:
clear (£25 JTU) water; a second-order stream with a gradient of
0.75-4.7 m/km; at least 25% pools; at least 25% cover and/or >1 m
depth in the pools; warm (21°29°C) summer temperatures; and gravel,
rubble, or boulder substrate.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1507 Temperature Optimum 21°29°C 1011 -
Area of Water Example
Phys. Assoc. Optimum
Turbidity Optimum £25 JTU
Details
Optimal lacustrine habitat for smallmouth bass is characterized by:
lakes and reservoirs with warm (21°29°C) strata available during
midsummer; abundant cover and/or depth; gravel, rubble, or boulder
substrate or rocky shoals; and clear (£25 JTU) water.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
Lake Ontario (Spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
389 Depth Characteristic 151 110
Area of Water Characteristic
Details
In Lake Ontario, smallmouth bass do not spawn until late June or July,
except for some that enter shallow bays or streams to spawn in late May
or early June.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
408 Phys. Assoc. Example 151 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nests have been reported as far as 10 m from shore.
Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu)
(Spawning Adult)
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
390 Temperature Limit 157 110
Water Level Limit 155
159
Details 222
Sometimes a second smallmouth bass spawning period may take place,
particularly if a temperature drop or high water interferes with the
first spawn.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
391 Temperature Characteristic 237 110
159
Details
Smallmouth bass spawning activity occurs in rising water temperatures
when the daily minimum is not <13°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
392 Temperature Characteristic 160 110
Details
Smallmouth bass spawning occurs at 13°21°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
393 Temperature Characteristic 129 110
Details
Smallmouth bass spawning occurs at 15°18°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
394 Saskatchewan Temperature Characteristic 155 110
Details
Smallmouth bass spawning occurs at 19°21°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
395 Temperature Characteristic 180 110
Details
Smallmouth bass spawning occurs at 15°21°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
396 Cayuga Lake Temperature Characteristic 115 110
Details
Smallmouth bass spawning occurs at 11.7°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
397 Temperature Characteristic 196 110
Details
If the water temperature rises gradually, smallmouth bass spawning
can be expected at ~15°C. If water temperature rises rapidly,
temperatures may be ~18°C before spawning begins.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
398 Ohio Temperature Characteristic 237 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nesting may occur at temperatures below temperatures
of egg laying. Nesting occurred at 9.4°21.0°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
399 Iowa Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 222 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nests are usually dished out down to coarse, eggsized
rubble, or bedrock.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
400 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 129 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nests may be found in sand areas. The bottom of the
bowl may be covered with woody debris and broken clam shells.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
401 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 251 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nests may be on soft bottoms.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
402 Maine Depth Characteristic 159 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nests were usually 4080 cm in diam. in water 66100 cm
deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
403 Lake Oneida Depth Characteristic 212 110
Details
Most smallmouth bass nests in Lake Oneida were in water 3.75.5 m deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
404 Depth Characteristic 222 110
Area of Water Example Streams 157
Phys. Assoc. Characteristic
Details
In streams, most smallmouth bass nests were in water <75 cm deep.
The nests are often near overhead cover or stumps, logs, stones,
or steep banks.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
405 Depth Characteristic 222 110
Water Motion Example 141
Phys. Assoc. Characteristic
Details
Smallmouth bass nests were usually in margins of deeper pools to take
advantage of minimum current. Lack of minimum-velocity pools eliminated
spawning.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
406 Area of Water Example Lakes 129 110
Depth Characteristic 0.61.2 m 196
Water Motion Example Leeward Shore 174
Details
In lakes, smallmouth bass nests are usually at a depth of 0.61.2 m
and 0.3-2.4 m from the leeward shore.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
407 Depth Example 3.5 m 238 110
Details
Smallmouth bass nests have been reported in water 3.5 m deep.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
409 Iowa Area of Water Characteristic 197 110
Water Level Limit 222
Details
Smallmouth bass nesting was usually in tributaries instead of the
Des Moines River or other rivers (particularly when river water levels
were high).
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
410 Iowa Area of Water Characteristic Streams 222 110
Water Level Limit
Phys. Assoc. Example
Movement Characteristic
Details
High water levels from April-May 15 were important to allow bass
migration to suitable tributary stream areas. High water also
rejuvenated gravel areas in streams by flushing away silt.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
417 Cayuga Lake Turbidity Example 115 110
Water Level Lethal
Details
- Smallmouth bass eggs are laid in shallower, turbid water than when
water is clear. Increased drying could exist if water levels recede.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
420 Saskatchewan Temperature Lethal 155 110
Details
Any drop in smallmouth bass temperatures below 15.6°C (particularly
for an extended period) may result in nest desertion, death of eggs
(and to a lesser extent) death of fry which have not risen from the
nests.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
423 Cayuga Lake Temperature Limit 115 110
Water Level Limit
Clarity Limit
Details
Male bass may desert the nest if there are sharp or prolonged drops in
temperature, external disturbances (such as humans), drops of water level,
clearing of water, and development of egg fungus. Males guarding nests
in late May deserted when temperatures dropped from 18.3°C to slightly
<10°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
441 Cayuga Lake Area of Water Example Large Lakes 115 110
Movement Characteristic
Details
In the spring, adult bass in some larger lakes enter tributaries to spawn.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1421 Area of Water Characteristic 1011 -
Phys. Assoc. Characteristic
Details
- Smallmouth bass spawn on rocky lake shoals, river shallows, or backwaters,
or move into creeks or tributaries to spawn.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1422 Phys. Assoc. Requirement 1055 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass require a clean, stone, rock, or gravel substrate for spawning.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1423 Montana General - 1021 1011
Details
Studies show that habitat condition during spawning is the most
important factor for year-class strength in smallmouth bass.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1424 Temperature Characteristic 12.8°21.0°C 129 110
63
Details 1058
Smallmouth bass nest building and spawning occur when water temperature
is 12.8°21.0°C.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1425 Temperature Characteristic >15°C 1032 1058 1011
174
Details 203
Most smallmouth bass spawning activity occurs ³15°C. 102
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1466 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 174 1011
775
Details
- Smallmouth bass nests are commonly in gravel or broken rock.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1467 Montana Area of Water Characteristic 1021 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass nests are commonly in shallows or backwaters of streams.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1468 - Area of Water Characteristic 1055 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass nests are commonly in protected bays or shoals in lakes.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1469 Phys. Assoc. Characteristic 222 1011
174
Details 63
Smallmouth bass nests are made over bedrock, rootlets in silt, or sand.
However, these substrates are less commonly used.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1470 Courtois Creek Water Motion Characteristic 1053 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass nests are usually in areas of quiet water.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1471 Water Motion Characteristic 1055 1011
Details
Smallmouth bass nests are usually in areas of very slow current.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1473 Temperature Limit 115 1011
1045
Details
Extreme fluctuations in temperature cause smallmouth bass embryo mortality
from acute thermal shock. Fluctuation also cause males (the caretakers)
to leave the nest unprotected from predators and/or fungus may grow.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1474 Temperature Limit 1011 -
Details
There may be another smallmouth bass spawning period if there is a
sudden drop in temperature during the first spawning attempt.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1477 Courtois Creek Water Level Optimum 1053 1011
Details
- Ideal spawning conditions include one or more substantial increases in
water level a week or two prior to bass nesting.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1478 Maine Water Level Optimum 116 1011
1053
Details
Ideal smallmouth bass spawning conditions include relatively stable
water levels while nesting is in progress.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1479 Water Level Limit 1063 1011
Temperature Limit 1045
Details
Rising water may flush smallmouth bass nest areas with cold water. This
causes nest desertion and halts embryo development.
Ref. No. Locality (Stock) Factor(s) Influence(s) Data Primary Ref. No. Review No.
1480 Water Level Limit 159 1011
Temperature Limit 1045
Details
Falling water levels may drive guarding males off, limit water circulation
around eggs, and increase predation. This results in lower smallmouth bass
reproductive success.