Well, I think low plankton definitely would have an effect. But, I also see plankton feeders thriving in a lake without plankton. That suggests that either the feed, or byproducts of digested feed, or colonies of bacteria, or algae growing on plants...something of the sort give these fish an advantage they otherwise would not have. Still, with the rapid flow rate of sterile water, the main reason I haven't pushed the issue is because the conditions just aren't good for threadfin and as a consultant, I'm hesitant to do something like this twice...if the first time failed. If we had plankton to even a minor extent, I would try it again.
The photos above are Richmond Mill bluegill. The one of me is from last October, the others of Bruce are from last weekend.
Below are photos of Aaron Matos' bluegill in Phoenix, shot in February.
And one, more....for JHAP's pleasure...
