Chesapeake Food Chains

What is the primary role of small fishes like menhaden and bay anchovy in Chesapeake Bay?

• They primarily consume plankton.

• They serve as forage for larger predators.

• They are not significant to the Bay's ecosystem.

• They help in cleaning the water.

What does ChesMMAP stand for?

• Chesapeake Mollusks and Mammals Assessment Program

• Chesapeake Menhaden Management and Protection

• Chesapeake Marine Monitoring and Assessment Program

• Chesapeake Bay Multi-species Monitoring and Assessment Program

Which method is used by ChesMMAP to study species interactions in the Bay?

• Analyzing stomach contents of species

• Tracking migration patterns

• Satellite monitoring of species movements

• Water quality analysis

What environmental issue is a concern due to excessive nutrients in Chesapeake Bay?

• Decrease in recreational activities

• Nutrient pollution leading to habitat degradation

• Increase in water temperature

• Reduction in commercial fishing

Why is the management of Atlantic menhaden considered crucial?

• Over-harvesting could impact predator species and seabirds.

• Their population is rapidly increasing.

• They are the only source of food for certain predators.

• They are a non-renewable resource.