In the creek channel, fixed stations will be determined by a computer random-numbers algorithm producing a random integer between zero and 100. Throw traps enclose a small, predetermined area, and can be used to determine fish densities. The sides of the trap jam into the marsh or mud substrate to entrap fish. The fish are then removed by dip nets and individuals are identified and measured. Abundance and total biomass by species are enumerated.
All data is recorded on a standardized field sheet.
Seines will be utilized to sample the creek channel. At three stations, as defined above, the seine will be dragged through the water column along the creek bank and substrate for a length of five meters. Seines are carefully withdrawn from the creek and the collected fish are carefully extracted from the seine into a processing bucket. The fish are then removed by dip nets and individuals are identified and measured. Abundance and total biomass by species are enumerated.