What crustacean often provides the most consistent source of protein for adult white crappie?
Answer
Freshwater shrimp or scuds
While small crayfish, particularly immature ones or those that have recently molted, offer excellent protein, the most reliable and consistent crustacean intake for adult white crappie frequently comes from freshwater shrimp, commonly referred to as scuds. These organisms tend to inhabit the deeper, cooler sections of the water column or aggregate around underwater structure. The overall abundance of scuds within a specific aquatic system is cited as a major environmental factor that contributes significantly to the production of large white crappie populations, making them an essential component of the adult diet.
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