Modeling of stream fishes in the Great Plain

• Abstract
• Goal: Predict species distributions, which aid in conservation.
• Humans have had impact on fish resulting in decline in species.
• This approach is for guiding conservation efforts for stream fishes.
• Introduction
• Conservation of stream fishes in the Great Plains.
• GIS is a powerful resource when dealing with limited financial resources.
• GIS provides models that help scientists with conservation of these fish.
• GIS also helps prioritize areas for conservation.
• Methods
• Study conducted in the Big Blue River, which is in NE Kansas and SE Nebraska.
• River bottom characteristics: The river bottom ranged from sand, mud, and gravel.
• Terrain characteristics: Row crop, Urban, and pasture.
• 120 fish collections, 50 species, at 56 test sites.
• GIS survey conducted by anglers and Kansas Department Wildlife Department.
• Stable species population, but no comparison available.
• Modeling conducted at the scale of stream segments, as well as environmental variables.
• Results
• 38 species occurred in 3 or more results.
• No such research ever done, this is the groundwork for more research.
• Allows DNR to set up more regulations and protected areas.
• Discussion
• Successful in classifying species, but no comparison for data.
• Increases predicting occurrences of rare and abundant species, as well as identify habitat.
• Conclusion
• Study demonstrated high predictability of Great Plains fish species.
• Gives understanding of processes and scales that regulate fish distribution.
• Helps protect area with high concentrations of endangered and rare species.
• Allows DNR to better preserve these species and their habitats.

Works Cited

Oakes, R. M., et al. "Modelling of Stream Fishes in the Great Plains, USA." Ecology of Freshwater Fish 14.4 (2005): 361-74.