Aspects of the early life history of the American eel (Anguilla rostrata (Lesueur)) in Newfoundland

Abstract

Elvers enter freshwater in Newfoundland later and at larger sizes than in more southerly areas. The growth of elvers and juveniles was much slower in freshwater than in the marine environment. - The food of elvers and juveniles consisted almost entirely of benthic insects. Dipteran larvae and annelid worms were the groups most frequently utilized as food. Elvers formed an appreciable part of the food supply of brook trout and large eels during the months of July, August and September. The food of elvers and juvenile eels corresponded closely to the benthic portion of the diet of small salmonids. -- Late summer migrations of juveniles from the marine environment into freshwater were common in some areas of the island. These migrations contributed substantially to the eel population of some Newfoundland streams.