ECOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF THE INFLUENCE NON-NATIVE AND NATIVE AQUATIC PLANTS HAVE ON FRESHWATER AND ESTUARINE COMMUNITIES

• Sponsoring Institution: Other Cooperating Institutions
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: STATE
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 0174919
• Project Start Date: Jul 1, 2009
• Project End Date: Jun 30, 2014
• Program Code: [(N/A)]- (N/A)

Recipient Organization
MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIV
(N/A)
MISSISSIPPI STATE,MS 39762

Performing Department
Dept of Wildlife and Fisheries

Non Technical Summary
This research will investigate the ecology of littoral zones fishes inhabiting vegetated habitats in freshwater and estuarine systems, and measure the interactive relationship between aquatic plants and the fish community. A habitat-based approach used in this research will provide a common theme that researchers can use to compare study designs and results of individual projects. This will help standardize collection methods to assess the composition and abundance of plants and fishes, which is necessary to ensure that the results of this work are comparable when developing management strategies. The data generated from this project will help spawn new and innovative strategies for fish management of habitat, not only in vegetated systems, but habitats in all aquatic systems; especially those systems inhabited by exotic and invasive plant species. Not only will the results compiled from this research quantify ecological criteria to determine the functional relationships between fish habitat and value of aquatic plants, but delineate important ecological factors that limit the distribution, abundance, and growth of fishes in freshwater and estuarine systems. In addition, results from this research will illustrate mechanistic responses by species within aquatic populations and communities given different scenarios in vegetated habitat that can be used to better access aquatic habitat by providing critical ecological information to freshwater and estuarine management (e.g. fisheries, aquatic plant and wetland management).

Animal Health Component

(N/A)

Research Effort Categories

Basic

(N/A)

Applied

(N/A)

Developmental

(N/A)

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
205	0210	1070	10%
205	0210	1190	10%
205	0812	1070	50%
205	0812	1190	30%

Knowledge Area
205 - Plant Management Systems;

Subject Of Investigation
0210 - Water resources; 0812 - Fish habitats;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology; 1190 - Limnology;

Keywords

non-native and native

aquatic plants

aquatic ecosystem

freshwater and estuarine systems

Goals / Objectives
The intent of this research is to investigate the ecology of littoral zones fishes inhabiting vegetated habitats in freshwater and estuarine systems, and measure the interactive relationship between aquatic plants and the fish community. Until the variety of functional relationships among aquatic plants and fishes are understood, the proficiency of impact by aquatic management will remain subjective and speculative. (Research Objectives) 1) Evaluate ecology and relationships among aquatic plants and fishes; 2) Examine invasive aquatic plants influence on fish migration, growth, reproduction, and mortality; 3) Quantify fish response variables and the functional uses vegetated habitats by fish; 4) Evaluate foraging ecology and food-web interactions among fishes; 5) Determine structural architecture influence on resources and fish forage efficiency; 6) Access management value of vegetated habitat in aquatic freshwater and estuarine systems; 7) Investigate environmental factors at the terrestrial/aquatic interface that impact aquatic plants and littoral zone communities. Results from this work will be published potentially in the following peer-reviewed journals: Journal of Aquatic Plant Management; Journal of Freshwater Ecology; Freshwater Biology; Ecology of Freshwater Fishes; Environmental Biology of Fish; Hydrobiologia; Transaction of the American Fisheries Society; North American Lake Management. In addition, technical reports summarizing project results will be written for sponsoring agencies and foundations. Papers will be presented annually to regional and national professional organizations and societies.

Project Methods
A habitat-based approach will be conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies will be used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at multiple scales: l) a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions will be a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche, and its relationship to the environment. Fish and habitat assessments will be made in freshwater systems, both lentic and lotic in nature, and estuarine systems. Data will be collected from field surveys and controlled experiments conducted in reservoirs, small impoundments, and streams containing aquatic plants and other structurally simulated habitats. To gain additional control and resolution of variables, experiments will be conducted in mesocosms and ponds. Relevant habitat variables will be used to characterize plant beds and correlated with measures of the fish community (e.g. abundance, distribution, and growth of fishes) will be identified. Emphasis will be placed on variables and techniques to describe the configuration and relative abundance of plant beds with in aquatic systems since these variables are directly influenced by plant control. This project will use a variety both passive and active collections methods, innovative techniques to improve sampling resolution. Distribution patterns of both adult and young fishes relative to aquatic plant habitats will be measured with both passive and active trapping devices (Nielsen and Johnson 1983). In additon habitat influence on reproduction and growth of fishes, and investigate the impacts that vegetated habitats have on growth and reproduction of fishes will be evaluated. The results will describe the overall importance of aquatic plants to survival of embryos and larvae, and provide a comprehensive list of species that use individual plant habitats for reproductive purposes. The purpose of this project area is to investigate foraging ecology of fishes and food-web dynamics, and relationships between aquatic plant habitats and foraging of individual species.

Progress 07/01/09 to 06/30/14

Outputs
Target Audience: Results from this work have been disseminated via professional seminars, educational workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington and Montana in support of lake and reservoir management. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and public news events that provide management guidance to a variety of federal and state agencies and private lake associations. This research continues to support supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results from this work have been disseminated via professional seminars, educational workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington and Montana in support of lake and reservoir management. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? This work not only provides evidence to strengthen a better theoretical understanding on how some aquatic plants are highly invasive, but how allelopathy of non-native aquatic plant may influence energy exchange and trophic dynamics within aquatic ecosystems. The comparison of two similar non-native and native species and measurement of allelopathy differences and potential influence on primary producers and secondary consumers allow us to identify a potential mechanism responsible for why Myriophylum spicatum is highly invasive. Our experiments provide new insight on the ecology and management of this non-native plant to help mitigate its impact on aquatic communities. These experiments complement our evaluation of relationships between fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in U.S. aquatic systems containing non-native plants. These research activities continue to provide information to facilitate best management practices and verify and expand a better understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Getsinger, K, E. Dibble, J. Rodgers, Jr., and D. Spencer. Council for Agriculture Science and Technology (CAST) 2014. Benefits of controlling nuisance aquatic plants and algae in the United States. CAST Commentary QTA2014-1. CAST, Ames, Iowa.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Fleming, J., and E. Dibble. 2014. Ecological mechanism of invasion success in aquatic macrophytes. Hydrobiologia DOI 10.1007/s10750-014-2026-y.

Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: State and Federal Aquatic Plant and Fisheries Managers; Aquatic Research Professionals; Private Lakeshore owners and Lake Associations. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and public news events that provide management guidance to a variety of federal and state agencies and private lake associations. This research continues to support supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results from this work have been disseminated via professional seminars, educational workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington and Montana in support of lake and reservoir management. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? We will continue to collect data to investigate the ecology of littoral zones, and habitat alteration due to invasive aquatic plant growth on habitat. Multi-scaled experiments and computer generated visualizations will be continued to further evaluate potential impact of non-native/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? This investigation has evaluated relationships between fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. These research activities continue to provide information to facilitate best management practices (BMPs). A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data were collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats.

Publications

• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Kovalenko, K.E., and E. D. Dibble. 2013. Invasive macrophyte effects on littoral trophic structure and carbon sources. Hydrobiologia 721: 23-34.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Kroger, R., E.D. Dibble, J.R. Brandt, J. Fleming, T.W. Huenemann, R.B. Stubbs, J.D. Prevost, T.E. Teitjen, K.A. Littlejohn, S.C. Pierce. 2013. Spatial and temporal changes in total suspended sediment concentrations in a Oxbow Lake from implementing agricultural landscape management practices. River Research and Applications 29:56-64.

Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: The goal is to evaluate ecology of littoral zones and the influence of alterations to aquatic habitat. This research continues to assess relationships among fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. Multi-scaled experiments and computer generated visualization evaluated potential impacts of non-native/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in southeastern U.S. stream systems. We continue to study the relationship between fish and vegetated habitat by examining aquatic plant influence fish abundance, distribution, and growth. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions were quantified. The impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration continue to be measured, along with the identifying critical habitat important to aquatic organisms. Data were collected to examine littoral zone, riparian, and floodplain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations, and how management can better serve the integrity of aquatic systems. PARTICIPANTS: Cooperators: U.S. Department of Agriculture; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; U.S. Geological Survey; Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; Salish Kootenai College; University of Montana; and Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Professional Scientific Societies: Aquatic Plant Management Society, American Fisheries Society, and Ecological Society of America. State and Federal Agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Private: Lake Associations PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major modifications in research design or approach.

Impacts
A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats. Conclusions from this work continue to be disseminated via professional seminars, workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information continue to provided the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Montana Tribal Lands in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events, and supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Schultz, R., E. D. Dibble. 2012. Effects of invasive macrophytes on freshwater fish and macroinvertebrates communities: the role of invasive plant traits. Hydrobiologia 684:1-14.
• Huenemann, T.W., E.D. Dibble, J.P. Fleming. 2012. Influence of turbidity on the foraging of largemouth bass. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 141:107-111.
• Kroger, R., Dibble, E., Brandt, J.B. , Fleming, J.P. , Huenemann, T. , Stubbs, T. , Prevost, J.D., Tietjen, T., Littlejohn, K.A., Pierce, S.C. and Spickard, M. 2012 Spatial and temporal changes in total suspended sediment concentrations in an Oxbow Lake from implementing agricultural landscape management practices. Rivers Research and Applications. (DOI 10.1002/rra.1579)

Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: This research continues to assess relationships among fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. The goal is to evaluate ecology of littoral zones and the influence of alterations to aquatic habitat. Multi-scaled experiments and computer generated visualization evaluated potential impacts of non-native/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in southeastern U.S. stream systems. We continue to study the relationship between fish and vegetated habitat by examining aquatic plant influence fish abundance, distribution, and growth. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions were quantified. The impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration continue to be measured, along with the identifying critical habitat important to aquatic organisms. Data were collected to examine littoral zone, riparian, and floodplain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations, and how management can better serve the integrity of aquatic systems. PARTICIPANTS: Cooperators: U.S. Department of Agriculture; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; U.S. Geological Survey; Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; Salish Kootenai College; University of Montana; and Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Professional Scientific Societies: Aquatic Plant Management Society, American Fisheries Society, and Ecological Society of America. State and Federal Agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Private: Lake Associations PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
These research activities provide information to facilitate best management practices (BMPs). A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats. Conclusions from this work continue to be disseminated via professional seminars, workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Washington and Montana in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events, and supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Kovalenko, K.E., and E.D. Dibble. 2011. Effects of invasive macrophyte on tropic diversity and position and secondary consumers. Hydrobiologia 663:167-173.
• Fleming, J.P., J.D. Madsen, and E.D. Dibble. 2011. Macrophyte re-establishment for fish habitat in Little Bear Creek Reservoir, Alabama, USA. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 26:105-114.
• Fleming. JP., J.D. Madsen and E.D. Dibble. 2011. Development of a GIS model to enhance macrophyte re-establishment projects. Applied Geography 32:629-635.

Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: This investigation has evaluated relationships between fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. The goal this year was to investigate the ecology of littoral zones and habitat alteration on aquatic habitat. Multi-scaled experiments and computer generated visualization evaluated potential impacts of non-native/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in southeastern U.S. stream systems. We continue to study the relationship between fish and vegetated habitat by examining aquatic plant influence fish abundance, distribution, and growth. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions were quantified. The impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration continue to be measured, along with the identifying critical habitat important to aquatic organisms. Data were collected to examine littoral zone, riparian, and floodplain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations, and how management can better serve the integrity of aquatic systems. PARTICIPANTS: Agency and Foundation Partners: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Midwest Lake Associations, and Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Professional Scientific Societies: Aquatic Plant Management Society, American Fisheries Society, and Ecological Society of America. State and Federal Agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Private: Midwest Lake Associations PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major changes in approach.

Impacts
This research continues to provide data for facilitating best management practices (BMPs). A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats. Conclusions from this work continue to be disseminated via professional seminars, workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Washington in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events, and supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Dibble, E.D., and F.M. Pelicice. 2010. Influence of aquatic plants-specific habitat on an assemblage of small neotropical floodplain fishes. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 19(3):381-389.
• Kovalenko, K.E., E.D. Dibble, A.A. Aqostinho, and F.M. Pelicice. 2010. Recognition of non-native peacock bass, Cichla Kelberi by native prey: testing the naivete hypothesis. Biological Invasion 12(9):3071-3080.
• Kovalenko, K.E., E.D. Dibble, A.A. Agostinho, G. Cantanhede, and R. Fugi. 2010. Direct and indirect effects of an introduced piscivore, Cichla kelberi and their modification by aquatic plants. Hydrobiologia 638:245-253.
• Kovalenko, K.E., E.D. Dibble, and J.G. Slade. 2010. Community effects of invasive macrophyte control: Role of invasive plant abundance and habitat complexity. Journal of Applied Ecology 47(2):318-328.

Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: This research continues investigate and evaluate relationships between fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. The goal this year was to investigate the ecology of littoral zones and habitat alteration on aquatic habitat. A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. We continue to conduct multi-scale experiments to evaluate impacts of exotic/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in southeastern U.S. stream systems. We continue to study the relationship between fish and vegetated habitat by examining aquatic plant effect on their abundance, distribution, and growth. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions were quantified. The impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration continue to be measured, along with the identifying critical habitat important to aquatic organisms. Data were collected to examine littoral zone, riparian, and floodplain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations, and how management can better serve the integrity of aquatic systems. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats. PARTICIPANTS: Agency/Foundation Partners: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Midwest Lake Associations, and Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences: Professional Scientific Societies: Aquatic Plant Management Society, American Fisheries Society, and Ecological Society of America. State and Federal Agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Private: Midwest Lake Associations PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
These ecological investigations continue to provide data for facilitating best management practices (BMPs) of riparian and littoral zones of flowing and none flowing water bodies. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Alabama and Wisconsin in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events, and supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Dibble, E.D. 2009. Impact of invasive aquatic plants on fish. Pages 9-19 in Biology and Control of Aquatic Plants: A Best Management Practices Handbook. Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation, Marietta, GA.
• Dibble, E.D., K. Kovalenko. 2009. Ecological impact of grass carp: A review of the available data. Journal of Aquatic Plant Management 47:1-15.
• Dibble, E.D., S.M. Thomaz. 2009. Use of fractal dimension to assess habitat complexity and its influence on dominant invertebrates inhabiting tropical and temperate macrophytes. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 24:93-102.
• Kovalenko, K., E.D. Dibble, R. Fugi. 2009. Fish feeding in changing habitats: Effect of invasive macrophyte control and habitat complexity. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 18(2):305-313.

Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: This research continues to investigate and evaluate relationships between fishes and vegetated habitat in different aquatic systems in the U.S. to improve ecological application in management and restoration. The goal this year was to investigate the ecology of littoral zones and habitat alteration on aquatic habitat. We continue to conduct multi-scale experiments to evaluate impacts of exotic/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in southeastern U.S. stream systems. We continue to study the relationship between fish and vegetated habitat by examing aquatic plant effect on their abundance, distribution, and growth. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions were quantified. The impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration continue to be measured, along with the identifying critical habitat important to aquatic organisms. Data were collected to examine littoral zone, riparian, and floodplain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations, and how management can better serve the integrity of aquatic systems. PARTICIPANTS: State and Federal Agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Private: Midwest Lake Associations TARGET AUDIENCES: Professional Scientific Societies: Aquatic Plant Management Society, American Fisheries Society, and Ecological Society of America. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
These ecological investigations continue to provide data for facilitating best management practices (BMPs). A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats. Conclusions from this work continue to be disseminated via professional seminars, workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Washington in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as forestry best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to produce technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, popular articles and news events, and supports both Ph.D. and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Smiley, P., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Influence of spatial resolution on assessing channelization impacts on fish and macroinvertebrate communities in a warmwater stream in the southeastern United States. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 138:17-29.
• Theel, H., E.D. Dibble. 2008. An experimental simulation of an exotic aquatic macrophyte invasion and its influence on foraging behavior of bluegill. Journal of Freshwater Ecology. 23:79-89.
• Theel, H., E.D. Dibble, J. Madsen. 2008. Differential influence of monotypic and diverse native aqutic plant bed on a macroinvertebrate assesmblage; an experimental implication of exotic plant induced habitat. Hydrobiologia. 600:77-87.
• Thomaz, S., E.D. Dibble, J. Igute, L.R. Evangelista. 2008. Influence of aquatic macrophyte habitat complexity on invertebrate abundance and richness in tropical lagoons. Freshwater Biology. 53:358-367.
• Kovalenko, K., E. D. Dibble, and R. Fugi. 2008. Fish feeding in changing habitats: effects of invasive macarophyte control and habitat complexity. Ecology of Freshwater Fish (doi:10.1111/j.1600-0633.2008).
• Dibble, E.D. 2008. Water quality and invertebrate assessment in streams along the Natchez Trace way, Investigators Annual Report (IARs). U.S. National Park Service, Fort Collins, CO.
• Dibble, E.D. 2008. Eradication of an invasive minnow from Mint Springs Creek in Vicksburg National Military Park. Investigators Annual Report (IARs). U.S. National Park Service, Fort Collins, CO.
• Dibble, E.D. 2008. Aquatic assessment of streams in Vicksburg National Military Park. Investigators Annual Report (IARs). U.S. National Park Service, Fort Collins, CO.
• Dibble, E.D. 2008. Ecology of fish communities in vegetated aquatic systems. U.S. Department of Agriculture Investigator Report AD-421.
• Dibble, E.D., M.R. Spickard. 2008. An Experimental demonstration to determine best management practices for invasive plant control and restoration of the sport fishery in Mississippi Delta Lakes. Annual Progress Report. Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, Jackson, MS.
• Earleywine, B., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Freshwater mussel survey in Mint Springs and Glass Bayou Creeks at Vicksburg National Military Park. Annual Report, U.S. National Park Service.
• Kovalenko, E.E., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Wetland delineation for Vicksburg National Military Park. Annual Report, Wetland delineation project, U.S. National Park Service, Vicksburg, MS.
• Dibble, E.D. 2008. A northern perspective of aquatic plant management and the fishery. Special Conservation Symposium sponsored by BASS MASTERS CLASSIC, Greenville, SC.
• Dibble, E.D. 2008. A fish's perspective on aquatic plant control: do changes in vegetated habitat impact the fishery 21st Annual National Conference; Enhancing the States' Lake Management Programs US Environmental Protection Agency and North American Lake Management Society. Chicago, IL.
• Earleywine, B., E.D. Dibble. 2008. An evaluation of water quality and macroinvertebrate communities in 50 streams along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Annual review for SE research directors, U.S. National Park Service. Tupelo, MS.
• Kovalenko, E.E., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Habitat complexity and native macrophyte dynamics after Eurasian watermilfoil control. Mid-South American Plant Management Society. Mobile, AL.
• Kovalenko, E.E., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Effects on foraging fishes after invasive macrophyte eradication in Minnesota Lakes. Mississippi Chapter of the American Fisheries Society of American, Tunica, MS.
• Kovalenko, E.E., E.D. Dibble, R. Fugi. 2008. Fish feeding in changing habitats: effects of invasive macrophyte eradication and habitat complexity. Ecological Society of American, 93rd Annual Meeting, Milwaukee, WI.
• Kovalenko, E.E., E.D. Dibble, R. Fugi. 2008. Fish feeding in changing habitats: effects of invasive macrophyte eradication and habitat complexity. MidSouth Aquatic Plant Management Society 27th Annual Meeting. Mobile, AL. Schlickeisen, E., E.D. Dibble, T. Tietjen. 2008. An experimental determination of the effects of aquatic plant control on broader measures of water quality. North American Lake Management Society Annual Meeting, Lake Louise, CANADA.
• Schlickeisen, E., T. Tietjen, E.D. Dibble. 2008. Microbial functional diversity of stream communities along a physiographic gradient of the Natchez Trace Parkway, MS, AL, TN.,North American Benthological Society annual meeting, Salt Lake City, UT.
• Spickard, M.R., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Abundance and diversity of fishes in vegetated habitat along littoral areas in six Mississippi Delta Lakes. MidSouth Aquatic Plant Management Society 27th Annual Meeting, Mobile, AL.
• Webb, K.M., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Evaluation of diets in bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) after a shift in a plant community due to eradication of Eurasion watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L.). Aquatic Plant Management Society 48th Annual Meeting, Charleston, SC.
• Theel, H., E.D. Dibble, J.G. Slade. 2008. A 5-yr evaluation of fish-plant interactions following an herbicide application in Minnesota lakes. Midwest Aquatic Plant Mangement Society Conference. Sandusky, OH.
• Theel, H., K.D. Getsinger, C. Owen, L. Esman, E.D. Dibble. 2008. Comparing survey techniques to assess a submersed aquatic plant community following a systemic herbicide treatment. Aquatic Plant Management Society 48th Annual Meeting, Charleston, SC.
• Tietjen, E.S., T.E. Tietjen, E.D. Dibble. 2008. Student evaluation of the role of the environment in determining aquatic community composition: A bioassay approach utilizing microbial functional diversity. Annual meeting of the Ecological Society of America, Milwaukee, WI.
• Webb, K.M., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Evaluation of diets in bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) after a shift in a plant community due to eradication of Eurasion watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L.), MidSouth Aquatic Plant Management Society 27th Annual Meeting. Mobile, AL.
• Webb, K.M., E.D. Dibble. 2008. Dietary composition of bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) within changing plant communities of Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L.), Mississippi Chapter of the American Fisheries Society of American, Tunica, MS.

Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: This research continues to gather data on the relationship between fishes and aquatic plants and vegetated habitat in streams to better ecological application. The goal this year was to investigate the ecology of littoral zones and habitat alteration on aquatic habitat. We continue to conduct multi-scale experiments to evaluate impacts of exotic/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in southeastern U.S. stream systems. In addition to this, we continue to gather critical ecological data to investigate the relationship between fishes and vegetated habitats. This relationship has been examined by determining aquatic plant effects on the abundance, distribution, and growth of fishes. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions were quantified. The impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration continue to be measured, along with the quality of refugia that aquatic plants provide fish to avoid predators. Data were collected to examine littoral zone, riparian, and floodplain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations. PARTICIPANTS: Agency/Foundation Partners: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Midwest Lake Associations, and Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation. TARGET AUDIENCES: Professional Scientific Societies: Aquatic Plant Management Society, American Fisheries Society, and Ecological Society of America. State and Federal Agencies: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Private: Midwest Lake Associations PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No Project Modifications information reported.

Impacts
These investigations of the ecology of stream's fishes and mechanisms that impact habitat continue to provide data for facilitating best management practices (BMPs). A habitat-based approach was conducted because managers (especially aquatic plant managers) directly modify habitat complexity through plant control programs and littoral zone management. Both controlled and field studies were used to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Data will be collected at two scales: a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions was a key component of the studies in this research. Functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche and its relationship to the environment. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats. Conclusions from this work continue to be disseminated via professional seminars, workshops, technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. The information generated by this project has supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Washington in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMPs) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research has resulted in a variety of technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, news events, and continues to support both PhD and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Kovalenko, K., E. Dibble, R. Fugi, and J. Slade. 2007. Community Effects of Large-scale Eradication of Invasive Watermilfoil. The Ecological Society of America Meeting, July 5-August 29, 2007. San Jose, CA.
• Perret, A. J. 2007. A multi-scale approach to evaluate the effect of the invasive aquatic plant hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) on littoral zone habitat of juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). M.S. Thesis, Mississippi State University, 59pp.
• Theel, H. J. 2007. Habitat alteration by hydrilla and its effect on macroinvertebrae community structure and bluegill foraging efficiency. M.S. Thesis, Mississippi State University. 73pp.
• Theel, H. J. and E. Dibble. 2007. Hydrilla altering effects on aquatic plant complexity and bluegill foraging behavior. The 68th Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference. 12/12/07. Madison, WI.
• Theel, H. J. and E. Dibble. 2007. Hydrilla altering effects on aquatic plant complexity and bluegill foraging behavior. The 33rd Annual Meeting of the Mississipi Chapter of the American Fisheries Society. 02/16/07 Vicksburg, MS.
• Theel, H. J. and E. Dibble. 2007. Hydrilla altering effects on aquatic plant complexity and bluegill foraging behavior. The 15th Southern Division AFS Spring Meeting. 02/11/07. Memphis, TN.
• Theel, H. J. and E. Dibble. 2007. Home sweet home: macroinvertebrate assemblages in beds of monotypic hydrilla, diverse native aquatic plants, and a plant-less habitat. 47th Annual Meeting of the Aquatic Plant Management Society. 07/18/07. Nashville, TN.
• Habrat, M. D. 2007. Movement and habitat use of selected non-game fishes in a Minnesota Lake. M.S. Thesis, Mississippi State University. 65 pp.
• Kovalenko, K., E. Dibble, R. Fugi, and J. Slade. 2007. Community effects of large-scale changes in plant composition after a whole-lake herbicide treatment. 47th Annual Meeting of the Aquatic Plant Management Society. 07/2007, Nashville, TN.
• Kovalenko, K., E. Dibble, R. Fugi, and J. Slade. 2007. Community effects of large-scale changes in plant composition after a whole-lake herbicide treatment. 15th Southern Division American Fisheries Society Spring Meeting. February 8-11, 2007. Memphis, TN.

Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
This research continues to gather data on the relationship between fishes and aquatic plants and vegetated habitat in streams to better ecological application. The goal is to investigate the ecology of littoral zones and habitat alteration on aquatic habitat. We continue to conduct multi-scale experiments to evaluate impacts of exotic/invasive aquatic plant species on native vegetated habitat and the aquatic communities in U.S. water bodies. In addition to investigating plant/fish ecology in littoral zones, this research continues to examine anthropogenic disturbances in Southeastern U.S. stream systems. These investigations of the ecology of stream's fishes and mechanisms that impact habitat continue to provide data for facilitating best management practices (BMPs).

Impacts
Data collected on this project have supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to the U.S. Corps of Engineers as well as state conservation agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Washington in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMP) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the U.S. National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research has resulted in a variety of technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, news events, and continues to support both PhD and Master's candidates seeking graduate degrees in the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Smiley, P.C. Jr., and E.D. Dibble. 2006. Evaluating the feasibility of planting aquatic plants in shallow lakes in Mississippi Delta. Journal of Aquatic Plant Management J. Aquat. Plant Manage. 44:73-80.
• Dibble, E. D., S. M. Thomaz, and Andre A. Padial. 2006. Spatial-complexity Measured at a Multi-scale among Three Aquatic Plant Species. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 21:239-247.
• Pedlow, C. L. , E. D. Dibble, and K.D. Getsinger. 2006. Littoral habitat heterogeneity and shifts in plant composition relative to a fall whole-lake fluridone application in Perch Lake, Michigan. Aquat Plant Manage 44:26-31.
• Dibble, E. D., and S. M. Thomaz. 2006. A simple method to estimate spatial complexity in aquatic plants. Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology 49:421-428.
• Smiley, P. C. Jr., and E. D. Dibble. 2006. Spatial and temporal variation of goldstripe darter abundance in first-order streams in north-central Mississippi. American Midland Naturalist 156: 23-36.
• Ferrer, O., E. Dibble, D. Jackson, and K. Rundle. 2006. Assessment of fish and invertebrate assemblages, and availability of food supporting fishery resources at Humacao Natural Reserve lagoon system, Puerto Rico. CIENCIA 14(1):28-45.
• Ferrer, O. J., and E. D. Dibble. 2005. Effect of aquatic plants and associated microhabitats on early life stages of fish. CIENCIA 13(4):416-428.
• Slade, J. G., E. D. Dibble, and P. C. Smiley, Jr. 2005. Relationships between littoral zone macrophytes and the fish community in four urban Minnesota lakes. Journal of Freshwater Ecolgy 20:635-640.
• Smiley, P.C. Jr.,and E. D. Dibble, 2005. Fishes of first-order streams in north-central Mississippi. Southeastern Naturalist 4(2):219-236.

Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
This past year we continued to collect ecological data to investigate the relationship between fishes and vegetated habitats. This relationship was examined by determining aquatic plant impact on the abundance, distribution, and growth of fishes. Fish response variables, i.e., foraging ecology and food-web interactions was measured, and the influence of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration was quantified using fractal geometry. We continued to use a habitat-based approach to support management (with emphasis on aquatic plant management). Both experimentally controlled and field studies were implemented to verify and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. The data were collected at multiple scales (system level, i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake, and micro-level, i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). Understanding the mechanisms that regulate distribution and habitat choice in fish is essential to determining reasons why fish utilize aquatic habitats.

Impacts
Data collected on this project have supported recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. State management throughout the United States have benefited from this work. Results and information have been provided to agencies in Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Washington in support of lake and reservoir management. Results from the stream research continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMP) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol for the National Park Service. Data from these studies continue to quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, evaluate BMP in small streams, and evaluate management of invasive aquatic plants. This research continues to support both PhD and Masters Candidates seeking graduate degrees at Mississippi State University.

Publications

• Davis, J. B., R. M. Kaminski, B. D. Leopold, R. R. Cox, L. W. Buger, Jr. and E. D. Dibble. 2005. Young ducks in Dixie, life beyond the shell. Mississippi Outdoors 68:25-28.
• Ferrer, O., E. Dibble, D. Jackson, and K. Rundle. 2005. Angling assessment of the fisheries of Humacao Natural Reserve lagoon system, Puerto Rico. Fisheries Research 76: 123-134.
• Slade, J., E. D. Dibble, and P. Smiley, Jr. 2005. Spatial relationship between littoral zone macrophytes and a fish community in east-central Minnesota. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 20 (4): 635-640.
• Smiley, P. Jr., and E. D. Dibble. 2005. Implications of a hierarchical relationship among channel form, instream habitat and stream communities for restoration of channelized streams. Hydrobiologia 548: 279-292.
• Smiley, P. Jr., and E. D. Dibble. 2005. Fishes of first order streams in north central Mississippi. Southeastern Naturalist 4(2): 219-236.

Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04

Outputs
This project has continued to collect ecological data to evaluate relationships among aquatic organisms (fishes, invertebrates) and vegetated habitats. These relationships were examined by assessing impacts on aquatic habitat and specific plant effect on species abundance, distribution, diet and growth. Field, pond and laboratory experiments are currently being conducted to measure fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions. We have examined littoral zone, riparian, and flood plain disturbances to vegetated habitats that impact fish populations. Field investigations have quantified littoral ecology at both a macro and micro scale within lake systems in Minnesota, Mississippi, and Brazil. Data continue to be gathered in experiments investigating foraging and trophic interactions among fish and aquatic plants in on-going pond experiments at Mississippi State University. Lake-wide manipulations have been conducted to evaluate these plant/fish relationships relative to early life stages of fish species. Impacts of different habitat variables, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration, on the aquatic community continue to be measured in the lake experiments. In addition to the lake and pond studies, stream disturbance caused by fish transplants have been investigated in small Mississippi streams. This project utilizes abundance, diversity and distribution parameters relative to fish and invertebrate communities. Pond and laboratory experiments were used to quantify the impact that exotic/invasive species have on aquatic ecosystems. International collaborative research with Brazil was conducted to investigate the buffering influence vegetated riparian corridors have on aquatic habitat.

Impacts
Data collected on this project will support recommendations to more accurately and economically implement management protocol in lakes in the Midwest, and reservoirs and small streams in the Southeast. Results from the stream research will continue to support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMP) in this region, as well as help design better stream monitoring protocol. Data from these studies will quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, will evaluate BMP in small streams, and will evaluate management of invasive aqautic plants. This research continues to support both PhD and Masters candidates seeking graduate degrees.

Publications

• Dibble, E.D., E. Kafcas, M. Maceina, V. Mudrak, C. Lembi, J. Madsen, R.M. Stewart, L. Anderson, K. Getsinger, W. Haller, C. Layne, A. Cofrancesco, R. Newman, F. Nibling, and K. Engelhardt (All Co-Authors). 2004. Best Management Practices handbook for aquatic plant management in support of fish and wildlife habitat. Aquatic Ecological Restoration Foundation/Spectrum Research, Inc. Duluth, MN.
• Ferrer Montano, Orlando F. 2004. Ecological integration and fisheries management orientations for Humacao Natural Reserve (HNR), Puerto Rico. Dissertation. 105 pp. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Mississippi State University.
• Luecker T.A. 2004. Aquatic invertebrate-habitat relationships and stream channel cross section areas change in response to streamside management zones in north central Mississippi. Thesis. Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.
• Dibble, E.D., S.H. Schoenholtz, and P.C. Smiley, Jr. 2004. Effectiveness of silvicultural best management practices in protecting aquatic habitat in timber managment areas. Final Report #X974062-00, Environmental Protection Agency. 78pp.
• Dibble, E.D., and P.C. Smiley, Jr. 2004. Establishment of aquatic plants in Lake Charlie Capps. Report # 237, Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. 63pp.
• Jackson, D., E. Dibble, and R. Hashim. 2004. Benthic macroinvertebrates and fish assemblages in little and middle Bywy Creeks, Natchez Trace Parkway. Final Project Report, Mississippi Lignite Mining Company, Ackerman, MS. 116 pp.

Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

Outputs
Research in littoral and riparian zone ecology continues to evaluate environmental impacts on aquatic communities, and management protocols. The investigation of the feasibility of introducing native aquatic plant species in Mississippi reservoirs to enhance aquatic habitat and to manage against invasive aquatic plant species was continued. Pond experiments were initiated at Mississippi State University to investigate invasive species impact on the structure of aquatic habitat and field investigations have quantified littoral ecology at both a macro and micro scale within lake systems in Minnesota. Concurrently to the lake studies, we continue to examine landscape disturbances caused by logging that impact aquatic habitats in small streams across Mississippi. Emphasis has been placed on measuring impacts on fish and invertebrate species in the first and second order stream systems that are rarely studied. This project utilizes abundance, diversity and distribution parameters collected in a landscape-scaled manipulation to evaluate the feasibility of existing monitoring protocol and the management of biological integrity in small streams. Data have been collected from 25 different small stream systems in Mississippi.

Impacts
Data will support recommendations to more accurately and economically implement protocol in quantifying degradation of small streams in the southeast. Results from the stream research will support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMP) in this region. Data from these studies will quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, will evaluate BMP and SMZ effectiveness in small streams, and will expand our understanding on the value of aquatic ecosystems. The information gathered will assist in determining better ways to manage aquatic systems that are economically and environmentally important. This research has supported 2 graduate students, who produced two masters this year.

Publications

• Clouse, Corey. 2003. Evaluation of bioilogical monitoring to determine condition of low-order streams in north central Mississippi. Masters Thesis, Mississippi State University, 91pp.
• Pedlow, Chrissy. 2003. An aquatic community assessment relative to a whole-lake herbicide treatment in Perch Lake, Michigan. Masters Thesis, Mississippi State University. 75pp.
• Carroll, G. D., S. H. Schoenholtz, B. W. Young, and E. D. Dibble. 2004. Effectiveness of forestry streamside management zones in the sand-clay hills of Mississippi: early indications. Water, Air and Soil Pollution: Focus 4 (1): 275-296.

Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02

Outputs
Research in littoral and riparian zone ecology continues to evaluate environmental impacts on the aquatic communities, and management protocols. Feasibility of aquatic plant introductions to enhance aquatic habitat and manage invasive species is currently being investigated in Mississippi reservoirs. Field investigations have quantified littoral ecology at both a macro and micro scale within lake systems in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Mississippi. Data continue to be collected in experiments investigating foraging and trophic interactions among fish and aquatic plants. Energetic evaluations have been made on fish diets and the consumption of available macroinvertebrate species in these habitats. Evaluations have been made on relationships among aquatic plant habitat and early life stages of fish species. Impacts of different habitat variables, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration on the aquatic community have been measured using underwater cameras. Concurrently to the lake studies, we have examined stream disturbances caused by logging and restoration projects that impact aquatic habitat that support lotic communities. Emphasis has been placed on measuring impacts on fish and invertebrate species in the first and second order stream systems in Mississippi. This project utilizes abundance, diversity and distribution parameters collected in a landscape-scaled manipulation to evaluate the feasibility of existing monitoring protocol and the management of biological integrity in small streams. Data have been collected from 25 different small stream systems in Mississippi.

Impacts
Data will support recommendations to more accurately and economically implement protocol in quantifying degradation of small streams in the southeast. Results from the stream research will support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS) abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMP) in this region. Data from these studies will quantify ecological mechanisms that regulate changes in our biological environment, will evaluate BMP and SMZ effectiveness in small streams, and will expand our understanding on the value of aquatic ecosystems. The information gathered will determining better ways to manage aquatic systems that are economically and environmentally important. This research has supported 12 graduate students, produced two dissertations, three masters theses, over 20 undergraduate students technicians and one Post-doctoral associate.

Publications

• Harrell, S., E. Dibble, and K. Killgore. 2002. Foraging behavior of fishes in aquatic plants. APCRP Special Notes Collection (ERDC TN-APCRP-MI-06), U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, MS.
• Ferrer, O., and E. Dibble. 2002. Aquatic plant densities and larval fish abundance in vegetated habitat on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway system. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 16:455-460.
• Smiley Jr., P. 2002. Influence of stream habitat alterations on dynamics of aquatic communities. Dissertation, Mississippi State University Library. 133 pp.

Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01

Outputs
Investigations in littoral and riparian zones were conducted to evaluate environmental impacts on the aquatic communities and management protocols. We evaluated the feasibility of aquatic plant introductions to enhance aquatic habitat in reservoirs. Emphasis of this work was to collect data on the ecological relationship among fish and macroinvertebrate populations that inhabit vegetated habitats. Field investigations were conducted to quantify this relationship at both a macro and micro scale within two lake systems. Research was conducted in the aquatic plant communities at Perch Lake, MI, and Charlie Capps Lake, MS, where data relative to foraging and trophic interactions were collected. Fish diets, consumption of available macroinvertebrate species and energetic intake by fish are being measured in different aquatic plant habitats. We are continuing to process and analyze these data to better examine the relationship between aquatic plants and fish, and aquatic plant effects on abundance and distribution of early life-stages of fish, and growth of adult fish. These data will continue to be used to examine fish response variables, including foraging ecology and food-web interactions within vegetated habitats. Impacts of habitat parameters; i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration, and underwater videography continue to be measured to determine the quality of refugia that aquatic plants provide fish to avoid predators. Concurrently to the lake studies, we have examined stream disturbances and modifications to vegetated habitats, as well as ecology of stream fishes and impacts of habitat parameters on their abundance, diversity and distribution. This work is a quantitative measurement of the effectiveness of BMP and stream side management practices (SMZ) in small streams of Mississippi, and represents one of a few attempts across the nation to conduct a large scale experiment at the landscape level to investigate environmental impact to small streams. We are currently collecting data to analyze management protocol in small streams and evaluate indices for biological integrity IBI. These data were collected from 15 small stream investigations in Mississippi.

Impacts
Results from this research will support the implementation of non-point source pollution (NPS)abatement programs such as silvicultural best management practices (BMP) in this region. Data gathered from this project will support mitigation of erosion, sedimentation and -subsequently - impacts on aquatic habitat and natural communities associated with forested-harvesting activities. In addition to the evaluation of BMP and SMZ effectiveness, this work will investigate the feasibility of current and new protocols to assess environmental condition and the biological integrity of small streams in Mississippi. Recommendations will be made for more accurate and economical protocols in quantifying degradation of small streams in the Southeast. In addition, these studies continue to quantify the ecological mechanisms that regulate distribution and abundance of fishes in our streams and lakes, and continue to expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes and their prey. The information gathered from our research will determine better ways in managing fish habitat and aquatic plants to improve fish survival and reproduction. This is economically and environmentally important because it supports decisions made in the management of wetlands, aquatic plant control, habitat enhancement for fisheries and sustaining biodiversity in aquatic systems.

Publications

• Harrel, S. L., and E. D. Dibble. 2001. Factors affecting foraging patterns of juvenile bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) in vegetated habitats of a Wisconsin Lake. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 16:581-590.
• Harrel, S. L., and E. D. Dibble. 2001. Foraging efficiency of juvenile bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus, among different vegetated habitats. Environmental Biology of Fishes 62:441-453.
• Dibble, E. D., S. McNamara, and J. Davis. 2001. Establishment of aquatic plants in Lake Charlie Capps. Report 205. Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. Jackson, MS. 26 pp.
• Carroll, G. D. 2001. Effectiveness of silvicultural streamside management zones in protecting aquatic communities in the sand-clay hills subsection of Mississippi. Masters Thesis. Mississippi State University. 109 pp.
• Young, B. W. 2001. Effectiveness of silvicultural streamside management zones in the sand-clay hills of Mississippi. Masters Thesis. Mississippi State University. 79 pp.

Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00

Outputs
This project continues to investigate ecology of littoral zones of fishes inhabiting vegetated habitats. Emphasis of this work was to collect data on the ecological relationship among fish and macroinvertebrate populations that inhabit vegetated habitats. Field investigations were conducted to quantify this relationship at both a macro- and micro-scale within two lake systems. Studies currently being conducted within the aquatic plant beds located in Perch Lake, MI, and Charlie Capps Lake, MS, have gathered behavioral data relative to foraging and trophic interactions. Fish diets, consumption of available macroinvertebrate species and energetic intake by fish are being measured in different aquatic plant habitats. We are continuing to process and analyze these data to better examine the relationship between aquatic plants and fishes, and aquatic plant effects on abundance and distribution of early life-stages of fishes, and growth of adult fishes. These data will continued to be used to examine fish response variables, including foraging ecology and food-web interactions within vegetated habitats. Impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration, and underwater videography, continue to be measured to determine the quality of refugia that aquatic plants provide fish to avoid predators. Concurrently to the lake studies, we have examined stream disturbances and modifications to vegetated habitats, as well as ecology of stream fishes and impacts of habitat parameters on their abundance, diversity and distribution. We are currently analyzing these data from investigations in Luxapalila and Twenty-mile Creeks in Mississippi to determine impacts to fish and macroinvertebrate populations.

Impacts
These studies continue to quantify the ecological mechanisms that regulate distribution and abundance of fishes in our streams and lakes, and continue to expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes and their prey. The information gathered from our research will determine better ways in managing fish habitat and aquatic plants to improve fish survival and reproduction. This is economically and environmentally important because it supports decision-making for the management of wetlands, aquatic plants, and habitat enhancement for fisheries.

Publications

• Dibble, E.D., and S.L. Harrel. 2000. Foraging strategies of the bluntface shiner (Cyprinella camura). J. Freshwater Ecology 15:455-463.
• Smiley, P.C., and E.D. Dibble. 2000. Micro-Habitat Use by the Introduced Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) in Long Lake, Wisconsin. J. Freshwater Ecology 15:115-123.
• Woodruff, S., S.L. Harrel, and E.D. Dibble. 2000. Baseline assessment of water quality, physical habitat, and fish fauna of West Little Thompson and Thompson Creeks, Chickasawhay Forest District. USDA Forest Service, 25pp.
• Harrel, S.L., and E.D. Dibble. 2000. A continued assessment of available habitat important to striped bass Morone saxatilis and distribution of other fishes in Black Creek, MS. USDA Forest Service, 53 pp.
• Smiley, Jr. P.C, and E.D. Dibble. 2000. Evaluation of Twentymile Creek restoration project: fish and habitat responses. Final Report, Mobile District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 41 pp.
• Harrel, S.L., and E.D. Dibble. 2000. An evaluation of habitat suitability and energetics of fish in aquatic plant patches. Aquatic Plant Control Technical Report, U.S. Army Corps Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.
• Harrel, S.L. 2000. Effects of Structured Habitats and Predators on Juvenile Bluegill Foraging Efficiency and Prey Resources. Dissertation, Mississippi State University.
• Ferrer-Montano, O.J. 2000. The Relationship Between Larval Fish Community and Physicochemical and Habitat Complexity Parameters in a Backwater Cove of Aliceville Lake, Alabama-Mississippi. Masters Thesis, Mississippi State University.

Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99

Outputs
This research continued to gather ecological data and investigate the relationship between fishes and vegetated habitats. The goal of this project is to investigate the ecology of littoral zones fishes inhabiting vegetated habitats. Both field investigations and pond experiments were completed this year to meet this goal. The experiments have investigated trophic interactions relative to differences in the littoral zone habitats provided by aquatic plants. Our data have been collected at two scales: 1)a system level (i.e., measurements among aquatic plant beds within a lake) and micro-level (i.e., small scale measurements taken within an aquatic plant bed). The measurement of behavioral and trophic interactions have been key components of the studies we have conducted, because the functional (behavioral) response of an organism to its habitat determines its niche, and its relationship to the environment. We are in the process of analyzing experimental data from the field and pond experiments. These data will be used to examine the relationship between plant and fish, and aquatic plant effects on abundance and distribution of early life-stages of fishes, and growth of adult fishes. Fish response variables, foraging ecology and food-web interactions have been quantified in ponds and in lentic and lotic systems in Mississippi. Impacts of habitat parameters, i.e., plant architecture, density and configuration has be measured, along with the quality of refugia that aquatic plants provide fish to avoid predators. We have examined littoral zone, riverine disturbances to vegetated habitats and currently are analyzing data to determine impacts to fish populations, and have quantified ecological mechanisms that regulate distribution of fish is essential to determining better ways to manage for fish habitat and aquatic plants. Investigations of the ecology of stream fishes and impacts of habitat parameters on their abundance, diversity and distribution are currently being conducted in Mississippi small rivers and streams.

Impacts
This study has verified and expand our understanding on the functional value of vegetated areas as aquatic habitat to fishes. Since this approach was habitat-based the data generated from this research are applicable to management of aquatic systems, especially wetland and littoral management of aquatic plants and fisheries. Information from this project will help managers modify important and essential habitat through plant control programs and littoral zone/wetland management.

Publications

• Dibble, E. D., and P.C. Smiley Jr. 1999. Ecological evaluation of the streams and aquatic communities in Vicksburg National Military Park. Annual Report, U.S. National Park Service, 34 pp.
• Harrel, S. L., and E. D. Dibble. 1999. An evaluation of habitat suitability of aquatic plant patches for foraging fishes using underwater observation. Aquatic Plant Control Technical Report, U.S. Army Corps Engineers, Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS. Smiley, P.C., and E. D. Dibble. 1999. Micro-habitat Use by the Introduced Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) in Long Lake, Wisconsin. J. Freshwater Ecology (In Press).
• Dibble, E. D. 1999. Evaluation of the Ecological Impacts and Use of Grass Carp for Aquatic Plant Management. Technical Report and Review for the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation, Report AERF97-4. pp. 76. (Web page publication).
• Dibble, E. D., and P. C. Smiley Jr. 1999. Fish community responses to in-stream manipulations in Twentymile Creek. Report, U.S. Army Corps Engineers, Mobile, AL.
• Harrel, S. L., E. D. Dibble, and C. A. Chisam. 1999. Water quality, physical habitat, and fishes of two streams in DeSoto National Forest. Final Report, Chickasawhay Ranger District, Mississippi. 35 pp.
• Carroll, G. D., E. D. Dibble, R. Rogers, S. Woodruff, P. C. Smiley, and S. L. Harrel. 1999. Water quality, physical habitat and fishes of two streams in the Bogue Homa-Leaf River drainage of the DeSoto National Forest. Final Report, Chickasawhay Ranger District, Mississippi. 27 pp.
• Dibble, E. D., and S. L. Harrel. 1999. Foraging strategies of the bluntface shiner (Cyprinella camura). J. Freshwater Ecology (In Press).
• Ferrer-Montano, O. J., and E. Dibble. 1999. The relationship between larval fish community and physicochemical and habitat complexity parameters in a backwater cove of Aliceville Lake, Alabama-Mississippi. Masters Thesis, Mississippi State University.

Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98

Outputs
Three approaches of study are currently being made to study the fish communities in vegetated aquatic systems: 1) An assessment of the historical scientific literature on ecological impacts associated with the use of grass carp for controlling aquatic vegetation was conducted. Comprehensive computer data bases and selected hardcopy reference sources on fisheries research were accessed for grass carp literature. These searches yield 2,486 citations. The major findings from this part of the study showed that current data are not available to adequately answer important questions required to accurately assess grass carp as an ecologically-sound aquatic plant management strategy. Very few data were available on indirect effects that grass carp have on the aquatic community. Direct impacts of grass carp on habitat heterogeneity are not adequately quantified, and early life stages of grass carp and both their direct and indirect influences on the structure of aquatic communities remain unstudied. These results point to limitations in previous data that support adequate decision making in the management of aquatic communities. 2) We are currently evaluating vegetated habitats in Lake Aliceville, MS/AL, to determine abiotic and biotic factors influencing distribution of larval fishes. Yet the data gathered from this study are preliminary, 988 fishes (10 families) have been collected. A multi-variate analysis has been conducted on the habitat and fish data collected thus far, which demonstrated that aquatic plants and physical parameters within vegetated habitats play an important role in determining young fish assemblages. These results are important because while considerable knowledge exists concerning larval fish drift in large rivers and increasing effort is being directed towards understanding larval fish drift in small streams, relatively little is know about freshwater fish larvae in lakes and riverine backwater habitats. 3) In addition, we are in the process of assessing aquatic habitats in three Mississippi streams: Black Creek, Twentymile Creek, and MintSprings Creek. Physiocochemical, morphological and hydrological parameters have been measured to delineate the variety of habitat conditions at each study site. Invertebrates and fish assemblages are currently being measured to determine the effects that vegetated habitats have on stream assemblages. These data, yet preliminary, provide an extensive data base for environmental assessment and future monitoring and will help provide an ecological index to better describe stream condition.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

• Dibble, E. D., and S. L. Harrel. 1997. Largemouth bass diets in two aquatic plant communities. J. Aquat. Plant. Manage. 35:74-78.
• Dibble, E. D. 1998. Evaluation of the ecological assessment of grass carp impacts on aquatic communities. Draft report, Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Foundation, Inc. 62pp.
• Harrel, S. L., and E. D. Dibble. 1998. Physiochemistry, fishes and macroinvertebrate fauna of two streams in Vicksburg National Military Park. Annual Report, Vicksburg National Military Park. 57pp.

Progress 01/01/97 to 12/31/97

Outputs
The goal of this project is to investigate the ecology of littoral zones fishes inhabiting vegetated habitats. Both field investigations and pond experiments were initiated this year to meet this goal. The design of the experiments have been completed, and currently being conducted to investigate trophic interactions relative to differences in the littoral zone habitats provided by aquatic plants. In addition to the pond experiments, field evaluations have been conducted on Lake Aliceville (MS/AL) to collect preliminary data on the distribution of aquatic plant habitats, and were used to describe historical changes in aquatic plant abundance. These data were used to help design future studies on Lake Aliceville, and were presented at the National Aquatic Plant Management Society (August 1997), Ft. Myers, FL. A larval fish study also has been designed and will start (April 1998) on Lake Aliceville MS/AL. Investigations of the ecology of stream fishes and impacts of habitat parameters on their abundance, diversity and distribution are currently being conducted in two National Park Service streams in Vicksburg, MS. Since these experiments and investigations have just begun and data are still being collected, data analyses have not been completed at this time.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

• No publications reported this period