Freshwater Fish Identification - Biology, Ecology, and Morphology

Fish ID logo

The Northwest Environmental Training Center presents:

Freshwater Fish Identification
Biology, Ecology, and Morphology
Course ID: BIO-403 ( 2 days )
July 31 - August 1, 2008, 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.
Lakeland Village Beach and Mountain Resort
3535 Lake Tahoe Blvd.
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Instructor: Michael Carbiener

Register Online | Directions | Accommodations | Course Brochure PDF | Course Catalog

Description: This course provides the basics for identification of adult and juvenile freshwater fish with an emphasis on those species found in California. Starting with an overview of the ecology of native and introduced species, the course will provide participants with the ability to identify species commonly captured in freshwater environments. The course will emphasize fish identification through morphology and habitat preferences, as well as traditional methods (e.g., dichotomous keys). The course will provide participants with two days of in-class experience as well as an opportunity to collect and identify fish in the field on the third day.

Course Topics:

Fish Ecology
Morphology and Functions: Participants will learn how the form and function of fish determine their role in the ecosystem. We will discuss what fish to expect in a given habitat and why they are there.

Habitat Preferences: Why are certain fish are found in fast water and others prefer deep pools or lakes? Why are some fish found in warm water but others need cold water to survive? By expanding on how morphology can be used to categorize habitat preferences, participants will gain a better understanding of what fish to expect at a given location.

Life History: Participants will learn about various life histories; why some fish spawn in rivers and others in lakes; why certain fish die after spawning and others spawn multiple times. We will also focus on the life histories of several fish species commonly encountered in biological impact analysis and discuss adaptations to extreme and varying environments.

California Habitats
Native vs. Introduced: We will learn how native fish are adapted to the west coast environment and utilize entirely different life strategies than introduced fish.

California Habitats (cont.)
Climate and Hydrology: We will learn how California’s interesting and unusual hydrologic conditions have affected the fish communities of California. Historical conditions and anthropomorphic changes will be discussed.

Managed Systems: We will explore how California’s growth and demand for water is affecting fish communities. We will also explore the effects humans have had on California’s fish community.

Fish Identification
Techniques: We will discuss various strategies for collecting fish, pros and cons of each method, and ways to reduce mortality.

Using Keys: Participants will learn how to use a dichotomous key to work through the identification process.

Practical Session
Identification skills: The third day of class will consist of field sampling. We will collect and identify fish in the field. Participants will utilize the knowledge gained during the previous two days to help identify collected fish.

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Predict the fish community of a given habitat, based upon the conditions and location.
Understand the life histories of many of California’s native and introduced fish species.
Identify many of the fish species found throughout California and the west.
Use a key to positively identify fish that are difficult or unfamiliar.
Impress your friends with an intimate knowledge of fish spawning strategies.

About the Instructor: Michael Carbiener is a Senior Fisheries Biologist with URS Corporation in Oakland, CA. He has over ten years of experience leading and conducting fisheries and aquatic studies throughout Northern and Central California. He is currently managing fish population studies on Hat Creek and the Pit River in Northern California, as well as a recent study of fish populations in restored salt ponds throughout South San Francisco Bay.

Intended Audience: This course is designed for professionals and members of the public with an interest in fish identification. Particularly helpful for fisheries technicians, environmental consultants, creek groups, and volunteer coordinators, this course will be beneficial for people looking to learn the skills required to identify freshwater fish, as well as those that may need to brush up on existing skills. Basic fish identification skills would be helpful but are not required.

Prerequisites: Participants should have some knowledge of biology. An understanding of general hydrology, fish biology and aquatic systems would be helpful but is not required.

Education Level: Introductory/Review

Course Materials: Participants will receive course proceedings, tutorials, and reference materials.

Continuing Education Units: 2.0

What to Bring: Pen or pencil, coffee mug, and a water bottle (to reduce waste). Please wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the prevailing weather. Lunch will be on your own. There are numerous restaurants within walking distance. Drinks and snacks will be provided each day.

Registration: $495 (*$395 reduced tuition is available for Native American tribes; government employees; nonprofits; students; and AFS, NAEP, NEBC, NWAEP members). You may register via the link below or by calling the Northwest Environmental Training Center at 206-762-1976.

Cancellation Policy: Registration fees are fully refundable up to 30 days prior to the event and 50 percent refundable (or 100% credit) thereafter up to 3 business days prior to the event. No refunds are issued for cancellations occurring less than 3 business days before the start day. Course registration fees and cancellation policy are subject to change without notice.

Disability Accommodations: To request disability accommodations, please contact us at info@nwetc.org or (206) 762-1976 at least 30 days prior to the event.