The distribution of Baltic sprat, Sprattus sprattus L.- causes and consequences

This thesis shows different aspects of the distribution of adult sprat in the central Baltic Sea. The seasonal development of sprat abundance in the Bornholm Basin was studied under the influence of the major Baltic Inflow 2003. Additionally paramters, determining the vertical distribution of Baltic sprat were determined. This new knowledge was applied and two models were presented to describe the vertical distribution of sprat. The found distribution patterns were combined to investigate the impact of sprat on the zooplankton community.