Delta Smelt Larval Survey Data Using Four Sampling Methods, 2018-2019

Four different sampling methods (Beach Seine, Manta Trawl Net, 20-mm Surface Trawl Net, 20-mm Midwater Trawl Net) were used from 2018 to 2019 to monitor the larval life stages of the federally endangered Delta Smelt in the San Francisco Estuary. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service's Enhanced Delta Smelt Monitoring Program designed this experimental survey to assess alternative sampling methods. The data was collected to estimate occupancy rate, relative density, and size distribution across methods and water depth strata.

Use Cases

• Compare the efficacy of different larval fish sampling methods based on the four gear types described.
• Model the occupancy and relative density of an endangered species based on survey data collected in a specific estuary.
• Analyze the size distribution of larval Delta Smelt in relation to water depth strata mentioned in the description.

Strengths

• Data collection employed four distinct sampling methods nested in time and space, allowing for methodological comparison.
• Focuses on a federally endangered species, providing data for critical conservation research.
• Survey was conducted over a two-year period (2018-2019) within a defined geographic area (San Francisco Estuary).

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment for large-scale modeling.
• Data may reflect temporal and geographic bias inherent to the specific survey program and location.

Provenance

Source

United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Enhanced Delta Smelt Monitoring Program.

Collection Method

Experimental larval survey using four sampling methods (Beach Seine, Manta Trawl Net, 20-mm Surface Trawl Net, 20-mm Midwater Trawl Net).

Time Range

2018-2019

Freshness

Last updated 2026-04-14 16:43:59.583405; freshness should be verified.

Geography

San Francisco Estuary, California, USA.