How does electrofishing affect fish populations?

Electrofishing is a method used to capture fish by temporarily stunning them with an electric current. This approach allows for the collection and study of fish populations without causing permanent harm. The fish are briefly incapacitated, making it easier for researchers to gather data, assess population health, and monitor stock levels. After the brief stun, the fish typically recover quickly and can be returned to their habitat.

The other options do not accurately represent the effects of electrofishing. While permanent alterations in behavior and changes to reproduction rates and feeding habits could arise from various environmental factors or stressors, they are not direct results of the electrofishing process itself. The primary function of electrofishing is to enable efficient capture and assessment while minimizing long-term effects on fish populations.