Energy Condition of Subsistence‐Harvested Fishes in Arctic Coastal Lagoons

In Arctic Alaska, Indigenous and rural residents depend on wild-harvested foods for sustenance the subsistence lifestyle is integral to their culture. Marine diadromous fishes, which often occupy coastal lagoon habitats, are relied upon harvest, particularly Pacific salmon, whitefishes (Coregoninae), cods (Gadidae), flounder species (Pleuronectidae). However, little research has been conducted that assesses energetic condition of these harvested by tens thousands annually. The effects accelerating climate change human development metabolic rates, diet, body condition, energy density fish great concern because will, in turn, affect people who food security. Consequently, we characterized percentage lipid, water, protein content 10 four lagoons within Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Alaska. We found whitefishes, Bering Cisco Coregonus laurettae Least C. sardinella exhibited highest density, content, significantly greater than marine cod species, Fourhourn Sculpin Myoxocephalus quadricornis, freshwater Pond Smelt Hypomesus olidus, values from other regional have published literature. Additionally, when relative mean abundance weight each was taken into account, total value availability compared with taxa Smelt. Given impending construction region, it will be important monitor fishes ensure quality harvesters.