CFP Aquatic Species Monitoring 3

Question 1

Which otolith preparation technique allows fisheries biologists to determine daily age increments in larval fish?

Accepted Answer

Whole otolith transmitted light microscopy after polishing to the primordium

Answer

Daily growth increments in larval otoliths are visible under transmitted light after grinding the otolith to expose the inner primordium layer.

Question 2

In a multi-pass depletion electrofishing survey, population size is estimated by observing that catch decreases with each pass. Which statistical model is used to estimate the original population?

Accepted Answer

Zippin removal model

Answer

The Zippin removal model uses the declining catches across successive passes to estimate population size and capture probability.

Question 3

What is the primary advantage of using eDNA (environmental DNA) sampling over traditional netting for detecting rare or cryptic aquatic species?

Accepted Answer

Higher detection sensitivity with less physical disturbance to the habitat

Answer

eDNA methods can detect species presence from shed cells and mucus in water with high sensitivity without disturbing the organism or habitat.

Question 4

A fisheries biologist calculates a relative stock density (RSD) of 15 for a largemouth bass population. What does this low value indicate?

Accepted Answer

Few fish have reached quality size relative to the number of stock-size fish

Answer

A low RSD indicates that a small proportion of stock-size fish have grown to quality size, suggesting potential stunting or high predation on larger fish.

Question 5

When using fyke nets to monitor fish assemblages in wetlands, which factor most strongly biases catch composition?

Accepted Answer

Water temperature affecting fish activity and movement

Answer

Water temperature drives fish activity levels and migration behavior, strongly influencing which species and size classes are captured in passive gear like fyke nets.

(CFP) Certified Fisheries Professional Practice Test

(CFP) Certified Fisheries Professional Practice Test

CFP Aquatic Species Monitoring 3