Trent barbel growing 20% faster than average

[binka]

I stumbled across this whilst doing a general search on Google, I did try a cheeky click on the 'members area' thinking that I might have found a back door in but it wouldn't let me lol...

Nottingham Piscatorial Society >> Good News? – Environment Agency Barbel and Chub Survey

If you Google 'Trent barbel and chub survey' you will find a link to the full EA PDF report.

 

[thecrow]

Not sure about all and sundry taking scale samples, It doesn't say whether the scales sent to them by anglers were from anglers that had been trained to do it.

Something that bothers me about the increased growth rates, could that result in a shortened lifespan such as that seen in Trout fed Pike?

I also don't see anything in the report about why these growth rates are being achieved, high oil pellets and the associated liver problems?

 

[Philip]

Something that bothers me about the increased growth rates, could that result in a shortened lifespan

Thats my basic outlook about fast growth rates. The faster they grow the shorter they live as a very general rule of thumb.

...Although I'll also be the first to accept that its not based on anything scientific, just my opinion.

 

[dave m]

interesting table for age/length

 

[lambert1]

It was in Angling Times this week also. Knowing how much bait Steve collects for the start of the new season, I thought the answer was obvious:wh