2017 LAKE STEWARDS NEWSLETTER | 9 Walleye by Prof. Sapna Sharma About this Fish Walleye is a popular sport and commercial fish native to North America. Walleye is also known as pickerel in some regions in Canada. Distribution & Habitat Its native range extends north to the Mackenzie River delta and south to Alabama. Walleye prefer cool water and low light. Walleye can be found in large turbid lakes or tributaries. Life Cycle Walleye spawn in small groups and prefer rocky areas of rivers and lakes. Spawning typically begins following ice breakup. Males do not build nests or exhibit territoriality. Predators and Prey Walleye’s favourite food appears to be yellow perch and freshwater drum. Other Interesting facts Adult walleye have a special layer in their eye (tapectum lucidum), which results in silvery eyes that reflect light, and its preference for turbid waters. Economically, walleye may be the most important fish in Canada. (It is fished both commercially and recreationally, and plays an important role in the Great Lakes economy.) Status of this Species Walleye are likely vulnerable in south-central Ontario due to habitat loss as lakes and rivers warm, and competitive interactions with northward-expanding bass. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sapna Sharma is an Associate Professor at York University in the Department of Biology. Her research focuses on the effects of environmental stressors—such as climate change, introduction of invasive species, and habitat alteration—on lakes, spanning broad spatial and temporal scales. Access her research and additional links here: https://sharmalab.wordpress.com. From desk time to dock time *HWWKHLQVXUDQFHSURWHFWLRQ\RXQHHG  IRUWKHSHDFHRIPLQG\RXGHVHUYH At Aviva, we understand your insurance needs are unique. That’s why we partner with brokers like Cade Associates, who help create an insurance package to fit your needs with: • Competitive rates • Professional service and advice • 24/7 claims service backed by a service guarantee† • Access to certified auto and home repair specialists • Expertise when it comes to insuring cottages and watercraft &DOO RUYLVLW  ZZZFDGHLQVXUDQFHFRPFRWWDJHWRGD\  IRU\RXUIUHHQRREOLJDWLRQTXRWH Home | Auto | Business | Cottage | Watercraft Aviva and the Aviva logo are trademarks of Aviva plc and used under license by Aviva Canada Inc. and its subsidiary companies. † Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.avivacanada.com/claimsguarantee for details.