Success in stocking marine fishes depends on species chosen, size 
of fish released (smaller sizes are more susceptible to predation and 
environmental stress), and habitat carrying capacity (how many juveniles 
or adults can be supported per acre regardless of the number of fish 
released). Also, from a hatchery perspective, bio-energenics, growth, 
metabolism, osmotic/ionic systems, reproductive physiology, feeding 
dynamics, behavior, and genetics have not been thoroughly investigated 
(if at all) for most estuarine species. 
There are many questions that need to be answered before full- 
scale stocking, if feasible, can be accomplished. The problems are 
multi-disciplinary and will require a myriad of information to accomplish 
an environmentally sound enhancement program. The fisheries and habitat 
research already discussed will greatly enhance the information base of 
the stock enhancement program. The Tampa Bay region is fortunate to have 
this program centered here because of the existing related programs and 
the demonstrated ability of the scientific and management community to 
work together. For further information on stock enhancement research, 
contact Daniel Roberts, FDNR Bureau of Marine Research, 100 8th Avenue 
SE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 
SUMMARY 
I have briefly addressed fisheries habitat concerns and trends, 
fisheries management and research needs, habitat restoration, and stock 
enhancement in Tampa and Sarasota Bays. The complexities of the research 
have been presented only as an overview. It is important to recognize 
the cooperative spirit demonstrated by researchers and managers in 
addressing the problems within this estuary. 
Much of the habitat necessary for the maintenance of quality 
biological production in the bay has been altered. New approaches to 
fisheries management are being implemented, which should provide enhanced 
techniques for quantitatively understanding the fishery populations in 
the bay. Restoration and stock enhancement programs may help to increase 
the quality of production in the bay. Funding continues to be a prime 
concern for research and management, but, because of the spirit of 
cooperation in the bay area, much has been accomplished with minimal 
dollars. Most programs are minimally funded and need to be put on 
accelerated schedules. Unless long-term committed sources of funding are 
directed to the bay area, little improvement in the bay system can be 
expected in the next decade. 
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