Source: NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIV submitted to NRP
STREAM FISH ECOLOGY RESEARCH
Sponsoring Institution
State Agricultural Experiment Station
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
STATE
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0193580
Grant No.
(N/A)
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Oct 1, 2005
Project End Date
Sep 30, 2015
Grant Year
(N/A)
Program Code
[(N/A)]- (N/A)
Recipient Organization
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIV
(N/A)
RALEIGH,NC 27695
Performing Department
Biology
Non Technical Summary
Human uses and alteration of the river environment have caused negative ecological consequences, including decimating rare fishes and introducing new exotic fishes. The purpose of this project is to provide meaningful research results to understand human effects on stream ecosystems to guide and facilitate improved conservation and management. Ongoing and completed research will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Habitat use research results on the endangered Cape Fear shiner have been used by the NC Division of Water Resources to influence management decisions and strategic planning. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish is guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions.
Animal Health Component
80%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
10%
Applied
80%
Developmental
10%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
1120399107010%
1350812107090%
Knowledge Area
135 - Aquatic and Terrestrial Wildlife; 112 - Watershed Protection and Management;

Subject Of Investigation
0399 - Watersheds and river basins, general; 0812 - Fish habitats;

Field Of Science
1070 - Ecology;
Goals / Objectives
ENDANGERED FISH HABITAT ECOLOGY The Cape Fear shiner and shortnose sturgeon are federally endangered fishes with populations occurring in North Carolina rivers. This research will identify critical aspects of habitat suitability for these species, including physical instream habitat characteristics and water quality criteria that will be useful in species restoration. Reasons for the decline of these species may be elucidated, and potential reintroduction sites will be identified. Because electrofishing for the Cape Fear shiner was prohibited by the regulating state agency, we conducted controlled electrofishing injury experiments on captively reared Cape Fear shiners, which suggest that they may be collected by this technique without risk (using identified wave forms). This research is multidisciplinary, combining field ecology, in-situ and laboratory toxicology, and fish physiology methods and approaches. These multidisciplinary methods will be expanded to other imperiled or threatened and endangered species, such as the spotfin chub, robust redhorse or sicklefin redhorse. ECOLOGY AND BIOLOGY OF INVASIVE FISHES The flathead catfish has been introduced to Atlantic and Gulf slope rivers in the southeastern United States. Given its rapid dispersal, high growth rates, and carnivorous food habits, natural resource managers, aquatic researchers, and anglers are concerned with the impacts that introduced flathead catfish may exert upon native fish assemblages and fisheries. This conflict between native and introduced fishes creates a management dilemma that requires a sound understanding and quantitative information, upon which to base management strategies, but is not currently available. Research activities and results on this serious, yet little-known invasive species problem have heretofore have been anecdotal studies by state agencies. Research has been initiated to (1) conduct a workshop to compile and summarize existing knowledge on the biology, ecology, and social aspects of introduced flathead catfish populations and to develop a research agenda to guide future expansion and application of that knowledge; (2) conduct ecological and social research region-wide; and (3) conduct ecological research on the population dynamics, feeding ecology, and behavior of introduced flathead catfish in North Carolina rivers. Additional research has been initiated to examine sampling vulnerability of flathead catfish and another invasive species, the northern snakehead. STREAM ECOSYSTEM HEALTH Research has been initiated to develop techniques and protocols to examine and quantify stream ecosystem health. This includes topics in biomonitoring techniques, fish and invertebrate indicator taxa, habitat and water quality assessments, and quantitative methods for comparing and prioritizing stream systems. Research is being conducted in North Carolina rivers and Puerto Rico streams to assist natural resource management agencies in developing strategies to protect and restore our flowing-water ecosystems.
Project Methods
ENDANGERED FISH HABITAT ECOLOGY Cape Fear shiner population sizes are estimated using a snorkeling transect method. Microhabitat characteristics and suitability for the Cape Fear shiner are quantified for water depth, mean velocity, bottom velocity, and substrate composition. Habitat surveys of potential reintroduction sites were conducted to assess their suitability in terms of critical physical surroundings. In situ toxicity exposures are being conducted as chronic (28-d) exposures with Cape Fear shiners and shortnose sturgeon deployed at various sites upstream and downstream of tributaries with poor water quality affecting mainstem habitat, upstream and downstream of wastewater treatment plants in important habitat. To conserve native populations, the in situ bioassays utilize captively propagated individuals. Survival and growth will be measurement endpoints in the tests. ECOLOGY AND BIOLOGY OF INVASIVE FISHES A regional workshop was held on the biology, ecology, and human dimensions of introduced flathead catfish in the southeastern United States. The objectives were to compile and summarize existing knowledge on the biology, ecology, and social aspects of introduced flathead catfish populations and to develop a research agenda. This information may be used to increase public awareness of facts and to guide physical and biotic research and management actions to improve resource management. Flathead catfish populations in North Carolina rivers will be sampled using a boat-mounted electrofisher. Flathead catfish population density will be estimated using mark-recapture methods. Individual flathead catfish will be fitted with small, low-frequency radio transmitters. The movement patterns of these individuals will be monitored over time and will be analyzed with concurrently collected population parameter estimates. Samples of stomach contents will be obtained from flathead catfish using a pulsed gastric lavage technique. Results of this research will be compared to those previously published to understand flathead catfish biology, ecology, and interactions among fish species. Sampling vulnerability of flathead catfish and northern snakeheads to electrofishing will be assessed in a laboratory setting with controlled electrical exposures applied to fish to elicit a behavioral response. STREAM ECOSYSTEM HEALTH In cooperation with faculty in other NC State University departments and natural resource agencies, research is being conducted to examine techniques to quantify ecosystem health of stream systems. This is pursued by examining the water quality, physical instream habitat, riparian and watershed land use, as well as the biota in streams, with emphasis on invertebrates and fishes. Systems studied for this research topic are North Carolina streams and rivers and Puerto Rico stream systems. The use of freshwater mussels and fish assemblages as indicators of ecosystem health are the primary focus.

Progress 10/01/13 to 09/30/14

Outputs
Target Audience: The target audiences for efforts of this project are natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? The project has trained five graduate students and one post-doctoral research scholar. Several undergraduate students and young professionals have been trained as temporary research technicians. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results have been published in international scientific journals and appear in graduate theses and dissertations. Findings have also been presented at professional meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Continue ongoing funded research, prepare additional research products, present research findings to appropriate audiences, maintain quality training and mentorship roles, and seek additional funding for new research objectives.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Research on Rare and Imperiled Fish and Mussel Habitat Ecology, Ecology and Biology of Invasive Fishes, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. Six journal articles were published, two on fish ecology and ecosystem management, one on imperiled fish ecology, and two on freshwater mussel stress ecology. One doctoral dissertation was been completed on ecology of freshwater mussels related to global climate change. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels that have been recognized with best presentation awards. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Smith, W.E. and T.J. Kwak. 2014. Otolith microchemistry of tropical diadromous fishes: spatial and migratory dynamics. Journal of Fish Biology 84: 913-928.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Smith, W.E. and T.J. Kwak. 2014. A capture-recapture model of amphidromous fish dispersal. Journal of Fish Biology 84: 897-912.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Fisk, J.M. II, T.J. Kwak, and R.J. Heise. 2014. Modelling riverine habitat for robust redhorse: assessment for reintroduction of an imperilled species. Fisheries Management and Ecology 21: 57-67.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Archambault, J.M., W.G. Cope, and T.J. Kwak. 2014. Survival and behaviour of juvenile unionid mussels exposed to thermal stress and dewatering in the presence of a sediment temperature gradient. Freshwater Biology 59: 601-613.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Garner, A.B., T.J. Kwak, K.L. Manuel, and D.H. Barwick. 2014. High-density grass carp stocking effects on a reservoir invasive plant and water quality. Journal of Aquatic Plant Management 51: 27-33.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Pandolfo, T.J. 2014. Biotic and abiotic influences on common and imperiled freshwater mussels at multiple spatial and temporal scales with inferences to global change. Doctoral Dissertation, North Carolina State University, Raleigh.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Archambault, J.M., W.G. Cope, and T.J. Kwak. 2014. Influence of sediment presence on freshwater mussel thermal tolerance. Freshwater Science 33: 56-65.


Progress 10/01/12 to 09/30/13

Outputs
Target Audience: The target audiences for efforts of this project are natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? The project has trained five graduate students and one post-doctoral research scholar. Several undergraduate students and young professionals have been trained as temporary research technicians. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results have been published in international scientific journals and appear in graduate theses and dissertations. Findings have also been presented at professional meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Continue ongoing funded research, prepare additional research products, present research findings to appropriate audiences, maintain quality training and mentorship roles, and seek additional funding for new research objectives.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Research on Rare and Imperiled Fish and Mussel Habitat Ecology, Ecology and Biology of Invasive Fishes, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. Five journal articles were published, three on ecosystem management, one on imperiled fish ecology, and one on freshwater mussel stress ecology. One master’s thesis was been completed on thermal ecology of freshwater mussels related to global climate change, and one doctoral dissertation on freshwater fish ecology was also completed. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels that have been recognized with best presentation awards. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Fisk, J.M. II, T.J. Kwak, R.J. Heise, and F.W. Sessions. 2013. Redd dewatering effects on hatching and larval survival of the robust redhorse. River Research and Applications 29: 574-581.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Cooney, P.B. and T.J. Kwak. 2013. Spatial extent and dynamics of dam impacts on tropical island freshwater fish assemblages. BioScience 63: 176-190.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Heise, R.J., W.G. Cope, T.J. Kwak, and C.B. Eads. 2013. Short-term effects of small dam removal on a freshwater mussel assemblage. Walkerana: Journal of the Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society 16: 41-52.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Archambault, J.M., W.G. Cope, and T.J. Kwak. 2013. Burrowing, byssus, and biomarkers: behavioral and physiological indicators of sublethal thermal stress in freshwater mussels (Unionidae). Marine and Freshwater Behaviour and Physiology 46: 229-250.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Weaver, D.M. and T.J. Kwak. 2013. Assessing effects of stocked trout on nongame fish assemblages in southern Appalachian Mountain streams. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 142: 1495-1507.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Smith, W.E. 2013. Reproductive ecology of Caribbean amphidromous fishes. Doctoral Dissertation. North Carolina State University, Raleigh.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Archambault, J.M. 2012. Thermal sensitivity of freshwater mussels: incorporating benthic ecology into laboratory mesocosm experiments. Master of Science Thesis. North Carolina State University, Raleigh.


Progress 10/01/11 to 09/30/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research on Rare and Imperiled Fish and Mussel Habitat Ecology, Ecology and Biology of Invasive Fishes, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. One book chapter was published on methods to study sustainability in aquatic environments. Three journal articles were published, all on freshwater mussel stress ecology. One master's thesis was been completed on thermal ecology of freshwater mussels related to global climate change. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels that have been recognized with best presentation awards. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review. PARTICIPANTS: Partner Organizations: U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Collaborators: Dr. W. Greg Cope, NCSU; Dr. Damian Shea, NCSU. Training: One graduate student received a degree associated with this project and a number of undergraduate students and interns assisted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for efforts of this project are natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on methods and freshwater mussel ecology are guiding management and research need planning by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and other eastern states with diverse mussel assemblages. Information gained on endangered species ecology assists federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Kwak, T.J. 2012. Fisheries indicators, freshwater. Pages 130-135 in D. Fogel, S. Fredericks, L. Harrington, and I. Spellerberg, editors. Measurements, indicators, and research methods for sustainability. Encyclopedia of sustainability, volume 6. Berkshire Publishing, Great Barrington, Massachusetts.
  • Mosher, S., W.G. Cope, F.X. Weber, D. Shea, and T.J. Kwak. 2012. Effects of lead on Na+, K+-ATPase and hemolymph ion concentrations in the freshwater mussel Elliptio complanata. Environmental Toxicology 27: 268-276.
  • Pandolfo, T.J., T.J. Kwak, and W.G. Cope. 2012. Thermal tolerances of freshwater mussels and their host fishes: species interactions in a changing climate. Walkerana: the Journal of the Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society 15: 69-82.
  • Mosher, S., W.G. Cope, F.X. Weber, T.J. Kwak, and D. Shea. 2012. Assessing accumulation and sublethal effects of lead in a unionid mussel. Walkerana: the Journal of the Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Society 15: 60-68.


Progress 10/01/10 to 09/30/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research on Rare and Imperiled Fish and Mussel Habitat Ecology, Ecology and Biology of Invasive Fishes, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. An international symposium on catfish science was held, and in addition to organizing the Symposium Program, two manuscripts were published in the Symposium Proceedings book, including one that served as a summary of the state of catfish science. Five journal articles were published, including one on invasive stream fish ecology, one on rare and imperiled fish ecology, one on stream trout ecology, one on Caribbean fish biology and management, and one on stream ecology and ecosystem health. One master's thesis was been completed on contaminants and food-web pathways in Caribbean streams. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels that have been recognized with best presentation awards. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review. PARTICIPANTS: Partner Organizations: U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Collaborators: Dr. W. Greg Cope, NCSU; Dr. Damian Shea, NCSU. Training: One graduate student received a degree associated with this project, and a number of undergraduate students and interns assisted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for efforts of this project are natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced invasive fish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Information gained on endangered species ecology assists federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Kwak, T.J., M.T. Porath, P.H. Michaletz, and V.H. Travnichek. 2011. Catfish science: status and trends in the 21st century. Pages 755-780 in P.H. Michaletz and V.H. Travnichek, editors. Conservation, ecology, and management of catfish: the second international symposium. American Fisheries Society Symposium 77, Bethesda, Maryland.
  • Wallace, B.C., D.M. Weaver, and T.J. Kwak. 2011. Efficiency of baited hoop nets for sampling catfish in southeastern U.S. small impoundments. Pages 581-588 in P.H. Michaletz and V.H. Travnichek, editors. Conservation, ecology, and management of catfish: the second international symposium. American Fisheries Society Symposium 77, Bethesda, Maryland.
  • Baumann, J.R. and T.J. Kwak. 2011. Trophic relations of introduced flathead catfish in an Atlantic river. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 140: 1120-1134.
  • Quinn, J.W. and T.J. Kwak. 2011. Movement and survival of brown trout and rainbow trout in an Ozark tailwater river. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 31: 299-304.
  • Cope, W.G., F.M. Holliman, T.J. Kwak, N.C. Oakley, P.R. Lazaro, D. Shea, T. Augspurger, J.M. Law, J.P. Henne, and K.M. Ware. 2011. Assessing water quality suitability for shortnose sturgeon in the Roanoke River, North Carolina, USA with an in situ bioassay approach. Journal of Applied Ichthyology 27: 1-12.
  • Cooney, P.B. and T.J. Kwak. 2010. Development of standard weight equations for Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico amphidromous fishes. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 30: 1203-1209.
  • Kwak, T.J. and M.C. Freeman. 2010. Assessment and management of ecological integrity. Pages 353-394 in W.A. Hubert and M.C. Quist, editors. Inland fisheries management in North America, third edition. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.


Progress 10/01/09 to 09/30/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research on Rare and Imperiled Fish and Mussel Habitat Ecology, Ecology and Biology of Invasive Fishes, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. One manuscript on stream fish habitat ecology, two manuscripts on a rare and imperiled stream fish habitat ecology, and one manuscript on stream ecology and ecosystem health have been published. Four master's theses have been completed; two on the habitat and reproductive ecology of imperiled North Carolina stream fish and two more on the ecology and management of trout in North Carolina Appalachian streams. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels that have been recognized with best presentation awards. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review. PARTICIPANTS: Partner Organizations: U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Collaborators: Dr. W. Greg Cope, NCSU; Dr. Damian Shea, NCSU. Training: Four graduate students received degrees associated with this project and a number of undergraduate students assisted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audiences for efforts of this project are natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Information gained on endangered species ecology assists federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Neal, J.W., C.G. Lilyestrom, and T.J. Kwak. 2009. Factors influencing tropical island freshwater fishes: species, status, and management implications in Puerto Rico. Fisheries 34: 546-554.
  • Craven, S.W., J.T. Peterson, M.C. Freeman, T.J. Kwak, and E. Irwin. 2010. Modeling the relations between flow regime components, species traits, and spawning success of fishes in warmwater streams. Environmental Management 46: 181-194.
  • Midway, S.R., T.J. Kwak, and D.D. Aday. 2010. Habitat suitability of the Carolina madtom, an imperiled, endemic stream fish. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 139: 325-338.
  • Midway, S.R., D.D. Aday, T.J. Kwak, and K. Gross. 2010. Cover preference of the Carolina madtom (Noturus furiosus), an imperiled, endemic southeastern stream fish. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 25: 151-154.


Progress 10/01/08 to 09/30/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research on Freshwater Mussel Ecology, Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator, Imperiled Stream Fish Ecology, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. One manuscript on habitat suitability of an endangered fish species and another on the relative supply and demand of quantitative fisheries scientists have been published. Two master's theses have been completed; one on the effects of road crossings on freshwater mussels and another on the reproductive ecology of an imperiled North Carolina stream fish. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review. PARTICIPANTS: Partner Organizations: U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Collaborators: Dr. W. Greg Cope, NCSU; Dr. Ken Pollock, NCSU. Training: Two graduate students received degrees associated with this project and a number of undergraduate students assisted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for efforts of this project is natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Information gained on endangered species ecology assists federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Hewitt, A.H., T.J. Kwak, W.G. Cope, and K.H. Pollock. 2009. Population density and instream habitat suitability of the endangered Cape Fear shiner. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 138: 1439-1457.
  • Berkson, J., K.M. Hunt, J.C. Whitehead, D.J. Murie, T.J. Kwak, and J. Boreman. 2009. Is there a shortage of fisheries stock assessment scientists Fisheries 34(5): 217-219.


Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research on Freshwater Mussel Ecology, Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator, Imperiled Stream Fish Ecology, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. One manuscript on application of medical imaging techniques to study freshwater mussels has been published, and a book chapter on fisheries education has been published. Three master's theses have been completed; one on fish sampling dynamics in Puerto Rico streams, one on efficacy of stocking grass carp to control invasive plants, and one on the habitat ecology of an imperiled North Carolina stream fish. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals: Dr. Mike Holliman, Post-doctoral Research Associate. Partner Organizations: U.S. Geological Survey, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Collaborators: Dr. W. Greg Cope, NCSU; Dr. Jay Levine, NCSU. Training: Three graduate students received degrees associated with this project and a number of undergraduate students assisted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for efforts of this project is natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Information gained on endangered species ecology assist federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Holliman, F.M., D. Davis, A.E. Bogan, T.J. Kwak, W.G. Cope, and J.F. Levine. 2008. Magnetic resonance imaging of live freshwater mussels (Unionidae). Invertebrate Biology 127: 396-402.
  • Hunt, K.M., J.C. Whitehead, D.J. Murie, and T.J. Kwak. 2008. Supply report: survey of institutions of higher learning to investigate possible shortages in the number of individuals with post-baccalaureate degrees in subjects related to fishery science. Pages 21-39 in U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. Department of Education. The shortage in the number of individuals with post-baccalaureate degrees in subjects related to fishery science. NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-F/SPO-91.


Progress 10/01/06 to 09/30/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Research on Freshwater Mussel Ecology, Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. One manuscript on introduced flathead catfish has been published, and a master's thesis has been completed. Two manuscripts on freshwater mussel ecology and biology have been published; one on potential injury or mortality of freshwater mussels by electrofishing and one on the use of stable isotope ratios of mussels to monitor stream ecosystem health. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Two book chapters on analysis of fisheries data have also been published. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals: Dr. Mike Holliman, Post-doctoral Research Associate. Partner Organizations: U.S. Geological Survey, NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Collaborators: Dr. W. Greg Cope, NCSU; Dr. Jay Levine, NCSU. Training: Two graduate students received degrees associated with this project and a number of undergraduate students assisted. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for efforts of this project is natural resource management agencies, other scientists working in this field, and the public.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Information gained on endangered species ecology assist federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Gustafson, L., W. Showers, T. Kwak, J. Levine, and M. Stoskopf. 2007. Temporal and spatial variability in stable isotope compositions of a freshwater mussel: implications for biomonitoring and ecological studies. Oecologia 152: 140-150.
  • Pine, W.E, III, T.J. Kwak, and J.A. Rice. 2007. Modeling management scenarios and the effects of an introduced apex predator on a coastal riverine fish community. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 136: 105-120.
  • Holliman, F.M., T.J. Kwak, W.G. Cope, and J.F. Levine. 2007. Exposure of unionid mussels to electric current: assessing risks associated with electrofishing. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society136: 1593-1606.
  • Kwak, T.J. and J.T. Peterson. 2007. Community indices, parameters, and comparisons. Pages 677-763 in C.S. Guy and M.L. Brown, editors. Analysis and interpretation of freshwater fisheries data. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.
  • Hayes, D.B., J.R. Bence, T.J. Kwak, and B.E. Thompson. 2007. Abundance, biomass, and production estimation. Pages 327-374 in C.S. Guy and M.L. Brown, editors. Analysis and interpretation of freshwater fisheries data. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.


Progress 10/01/05 to 09/30/06

Outputs
Research on Endangered Fish Habitat Ecology, Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator, and Stream Ecosystem Health is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. Two manuscripts on introduced flathead catfish have been published, and a master's thesis has been completed. A manuscript on endangered fish ecology has been published, as well as a book chapter on employment in the fisheries field. Laboratory research on potential injury or mortality of an imperiled fish species and freshwater mussels by electrofishing has been completed. On other topics, additional manuscripts are in press. Two book chapters on analysis of fisheries data are also in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Information gained on endangered species ecology assist federal and state agencies in managing aquatic systems to protect these imperiled species. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Hewitt, A.H., W.G. Cope, T.J. Kwak, T. Augspurger, P.R. Lazaro, and D. Shea. 2006. Influence of water quality and associated contaminants on survival and growth of the endangered Cape Fear shiner (Notropis mekistocholas). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 25: 2288-2298.
  • Kwak, T.J., W.E. Pine, III, and D.S. Waters. 2006. Age, growth, and mortality of introduced flathead catfish in Atlantic rivers and a review of other populations. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 26: 73-87.
  • Kwak, T.J. and F.J. Margraf. 2006. Fisheries employment in Cooperative Research Units: where agency meets academia. Pages 109-121 in D.A. Hewitt, W.E. Pine, III, and A.V. Zale, editors. The American Fisheries Society guide to fisheries employment, second edition. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.
  • Brown J.J., J. Perillo, T.J. Kwak, and R.J. Horwitz. 2005. Implications of Pylodictis olivaris (flathead catfish) introduction into the Delaware and Susquehanna drainages. Northeastern Naturalist 12: 473-484.


Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05

Outputs
Research on Endangered Fish Habitat Ecology and Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. Two manuscripts on introduced flathead catfish have been published. Laboratory research on potential injury or mortality of an imperiled fish species and freshwater mussels by electrofishing is ongoing. Four papers have been published on stream ecosystem health and integrity, and one other published on enhancing reservoir fish habitat. Additional manuscripts are in press. Two book chapters on analysis of fisheries data are also in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review.

Impacts
Research results associated with this project will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish are guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions. Results on stream ecosystem health help improve protection and management of those systems.

Publications

  • Gustafson, L.L., M.K. Stoskopf, A.E. Bogan, W. Showers, T.J. Kwak, S. Hanlon, and J.F. Levine. 2005. Evaluation of a nonlethal technique for hemolymph collection in Elliptio complanata, a freshwater bivalve (Mollusca: Unionidae). Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 65: 159-165.
  • Gustafson, L.L., M.K. Stoskopf, W. Showers, G. Cope, C. Eads, R. Linnehan, T.J. Kwak, B. Andersen, and J.F. Levine. 2005. Reference ranges for hemolymph chemistries from Elliptio complanata of North Carolina. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 65: 167-176.
  • Bringolf, R.B., T.J. Kwak, W.G. Cope, and M.S. Larimore. 2005. Salinity tolerance of flathead catfish: implications for dispersal of introduced populations. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 134: 927-936.
  • Pine, W.E, III, T.J. Kwak, D.S. Waters, and J.A. Rice. 2005. Diet selectivity of introduced flathead catfish in coastal rivers. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 134: 901-909.
  • Radwell A.J. and T.J. Kwak. 2005. Assessing ecological integrity of Ozark rivers to determine suitability for protective status. Environmental Management 35: 799-810.
  • Heltsley, R.M., W.G. Cope, D. Shea, R.B. Bringolf, T.J. Kwak, and E.G. Malindzak. 2005. Assessing organic contaminants in fish: comparison of a non-lethal tissue sampling technique to mobile and stationary passive sampling devices. Environmental Science and Technology 39: 7601-7608.
  • Barwick, R.D., T.J. Kwak, R.L. Noble, and D.H. Barwick. 2004. Fish populations associated with habitat-modified piers and natural woody debris in Piedmont Carolina reservoirs. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 24: 1120-1133.


Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/04

Outputs
Research on Endangered Fish Habitat Ecology and Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. One manuscript on introduced flathead catfish has been published, and a doctoral dissertation has been completed. Laboratory research on potential injury or mortality of an imperiled fish species and freshwater mussels by electrofishing has been initiated. On other topics, two additional manuscripts are in press. Two book chapters on analysis of fisheries data are also in press. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review.

Impacts
Ongoing and completed research will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Research results have been extended to the public via 18 media interviews (2000-2004), resulting in national, regional, and local radio, television, newspaper, and magazine communications. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish is guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions.

Publications

  • Waters, D.S., T.J. Kwak, J.B. Arnott, and W.E. Pine. 2004. Evaluation of stomach tubes and gastric lavage for sampling diets from blue catfish and flathead catfish. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 24: 258-261.


Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03

Outputs
Research on Endangered Fish Habitat Ecology and Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator is ongoing and proceeding according to schedule. Grant funding to study introduced flathead catfish has been renewed for an additional 4-year period. Laboratory research on potential injury or mortality of endangered minnows by electrofishing is complete, and two manuscripts have been published on that topic. On other topics, two additional manuscripts have been published, two others are in press, and another is in revision. Two book chapters on analysis of fisheries data have also been accepted for publication. Field activities on Cape Fear shiner ecology and an evaluation of artificial habitat enhancement to piers are complete, and two Master of Science theses have been completed. Presentations of research results have been presented at meetings of scientific societies at state, regional, and national levels. Other publications are in preparation or in journal review.

Impacts
Ongoing and completed research will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Habitat use research results on the endangered Cape Fear shiner have been used by the NC Division of Water Resources to influence management decisions and strategic planning. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish is guiding management and research need planning by NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists and other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions.

Publications

  • Pine, W.E., K.H. Pollock, J.E. Hightower, T.J. Kwak, and J.A. Rice. 2003. A review of tagging methods for estimating fish population size and components of mortality. Fisheries 28(10): 10-23.
  • Holliman, F.M., J.B. Reynolds, and T.J. Kwak. 2003. A predictive risk model for electroshock-induced mortality of the endangered Cape Fear shiner. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 23: 905-912.
  • Holliman, F.M., J.B. Reynolds, and T.J. Kwak. 2003. Electroshock-induced injury and mortality in the spotfin chub, a threatened minnow. North American Journal of Fisheries Management 23: 962-966.
  • Quinn J.W. and T.J. Kwak. 2003. Fish assemblage changes in an Ozark river after impoundment: a long-term perspective. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 132: 110-119.


Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02

Outputs
Research on Endangered Fish Habitat Ecology and Ecology of an Introduced Apex Predator is ongoing and has proceeded according to schedule. Laboratory research on potential injury or mortality of endangered minnows by electrofishing is completed, and two manuscripts have been submitted to a peer-reviewed journal; one has been accepted for publication, and the other is in revision. Field activities on Cape Fear shiner ecology and introduced flathead catfish ecology and biology are complete. Presentations of research results have been completed and are planned for future meetings of scientific societies. Completed publications include an article on the reproductive ecology of trout in regulated river systems. Other publications are in press or in journal review.

Impacts
Ongoing and completed research will guide state and federal resource management agencies in developing policy and managing aquatic resources, especially in flowing-water environments. Presentations to scientific peers and resource user groups will improve scientific understanding and public knowledge of resource issues. Habitat use research results on the endangered Cape Fear shiner have been used by the NC Division of Water Resources to influence management decisions and strategic planning. Results of research on introduced flathead catfish is guiding management and research need planning by other eastern states with similar non-native fish introductions.

Publications

  • Pender, D.R. and T.J. Kwak. 2002. Factors influencing brown trout reproductive success in Ozark tailwater rivers. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 131: 698-717.