Project Description
Pelagic broadcast-spawning fishes (pelagophils) are considered susceptible to flow alteration because eggs and larvae drift passively in suspension for several days until they become free swimming (Battle and Sprules 1960; Balon 1975; Platania and Altenbach 1998). This project would develop statistical models that describe the relationship between pelagophils (e.g., Arkansas River Shiner) and flow elements. The data were previously compiled by a SARP project. In conjunction, status surveys will be reviewed and follow up surveys would be completed in areas where data were lacking.
Conservation Area
CanadianNFCA Objectives
Flow-ecology models across the region could be used to develop possible flow standards for Great Plains rivers. At a minimum, these efforts would benefit a recovery plan. These data would also be useful to better understand the likely implications of reduced flows on pelagic broadcast spawning fishes
United States Fish and Wildlife Service ESA, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Great Plains LCC, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Texas Parks and Wildlife
