Low temperature cues ontogenetic shifts by multiple sizes of juvenile Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) in restored mangrove creeks of south Florida

Juvenile tarpon [25–35 cm (TL)] implanted with transmitters moved into restored mangrove habitat within 3 days after construction. Emigration from juvenile habitat was significantly related to low temperatures <20°C but not water levels. There was overlap among cohorts with 50% of tarpon emigrating one winter and the remainder waiting a year later. Mangrove restoration should be scheduled to avoid blocking egress routes (e.g., silt curtains) when tarpon are likely to emigrate.