The proposed investigation has three objectives. First, (1) we will characterize differences in the accumulated vitellogenin ratios in oocytes of Striped Bass captured from all four river systems in North Carolina and one freshwater reservoir in South Carolina. Then, (2) we will explore if this adaptation is genetic in nature or if it is a plastic physiological response that may occur over a period of months during oogenesis. (3) We will evaluate if Striped Bass are able to adjust the egg yolk composition to accommodate changes in environmental salinity such that eggs of appropriate buoyancy are produced, which would maximize reproductive success. Finally, we will evaluate the spawning performance of Striped Bass in high and low water salinities.
