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February 25-27 Benton Event Center • Benton, Ark. 2015 American Fisheries Society Arkansas Chapter Meeting
February 25-27Benton Event Center • Benton, Ark.
2015American Fisheries Society
Arkansas Chapter Meeting
PROGRAM AND ABSTRACTS OF
THE 29TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE ARKANSAS CHAPTER OF
THE AMERICAN FISHERIES SOCIETY
BENTON EVENTS CENTER
BENTON, ARKANSAS
25 – 27 FEBRUARY 2015
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
BEN BATTEN, PRESIDENT
JEFF QUINN, PRESIDENT-ELECT
CHRIS RACEY, PAST-PRESIDENT
PAUL PORT, TREASURER
MATT SCHROEDER, SECRETARY
THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME YOU TO THE MEETING!
PROGRAM OVERVIEW:
WEDNESDAY – 25 FEBRUARY 2015
ACTIVITY TIME LOCATION MEETING REGISTRATION 12:00 – 1:20 PM FOYER PRESENTATION LOADING 12:00 – 1:00 PM ROOM #1 WELCOME, PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS 1:00 – 1:20 PM ROOM #1 PLENARY SESSION 1:20 – 2:40 PM ROOM #1
DR. MIKE ALLEN 1:20 – 2:00 PM ROOM #1 DR. STEVE LOCHMANN 2:00 – 2:40 PM ROOM #1
BREAK 2:40 – 3:00 PM ROOM #1 STOCKING SYMPOSIUM 3:00 – 5:00 PM ROOM #1 POSTER SESSION 5:00 – 6:00 PM ROOM #1 PIZZA SOCIAL 6:00 – 9:00 PM ROOM #1 ENTERTAINMENT BY THE BUFFALO CITY RAMBLERS
THURSDAY – 26 FEBRUARY 2015
ACTIVITY TIME LOCATION MEETING REGISTRATION 8:00 – 8:15 AM FOYER PRESENTATION LOADING 8:00 – 8:15 AM ROOM #1 SESSION 1 – FISH MANAGEMENT 8:15 –9:30 AM ROOM #1 BREAK 9:30 – 9:45 AM SESSION 2 – NONGAME FISH 9:45 – 10:00 AM ROOM #1 LUNCH ON YOUR OWN 11:30 – 1:00 PM SESSION 3 – STREAM ECOLOGY 1:00 – 2:15 PM ROOM #1 BREAK 2:15 – 2:30 PM SESSION 4 - ECOLOGY 2:30 – 3:30 PM ROOM #1 BREAK 3:30 – 3:45 PM SESSION 5 – BIOLOGY 3:45 – 5:15 PM ROOM #1 CRAWFISH BOIL, AWARDS, SILENT AUCTION 6:00 – 9:00 PM ROOM #1ENTERTAINMENT BY BIG STILL RIVER
FRIDAY – 27 FEBRUARY 2015
ACTIVITY TIME LOCATIO N
CHAPTER BUSINESS MEETING 8:30 – 10:30 AM ROOM #1 ALLIGATOR GAR WORKGROUP 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM ROOM #1 PAST-PRESIDENTS LUNCH 11:30 AM GINO’S SPORTS GRILL
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WEDNESDAY – 25 FEBRUARY 2015
1:20 PM - PLENARY SESSION SPEAKER - DR. MIKE ALLEN, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
Dr. Mike Allen is professor at the University of Florida, and he has earned B.S., M.S., and Ph.D degrees from Texas A&M, Auburn, and Mississippi State Universities. He teaches fish population dynamics and ecological statistics. Mike has mentored over 30 graduate students, and together they have published over 100 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters. Mike Allen’s research program addresses fish population and fish community responses to changes in fishing mortality, habitat, and species interactions. His lab has worked on a variety of fish and fisheries issues in lake, reservoir, river, and marine environments. They utilize a combination of field collections and population modeling to predict how fish populations respond to changes in fishing regulations, community structure, and variation in habitat quantity and quality. Dr. Allen’s presentation will discuss cases where stocking is likely to improve fisheries, the importance of detecting additive effects in stocking evaluation studies, and an overview of the pitfalls associated with stocking programs.
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WEDNESDAY – 25 FEBRUARY 2015
2:00 PM - PLENARY SESSION SPEAKER – DR. STEVE LOCHMANN, UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT PINE BLUFF
Steve Lochmann is a professor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He earned B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. degrees at Valparaiso, Florida Tech, and Texas A&M Universities. Steve teaches ichthyology, fisheries management, and fish ecology. He has supervised 16 master’s students and published more than 50 peer-reviewed articles during his career. He has worked in marine, estuarine, and freshwater systems on a wide range of conservation and management issues related to both sport and non-game species. Steve has been involved with culture of early life history stages of everything from Atlantic Cod to Alligator Gar. His lab has been working on use of hatchery fish for stock enhancement since 1998, paying particular attention to enhancement of Largemouth Bass and Crappie populations here in Arkansas. Steve’s presentation will identify differences between wild and hatchery salmonids, and determine whether models of how those groups differ are transferable to centrarchids, particularly Largemouth Bass.
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WEDNESDAY – 25 FEBRUARY 2015
STOCKING SYMPOSIUM Moderator: Jeff Quinn 3:00-5:00 PM
3:00 ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH COMMISSION’S WARMWATER FISH CULTURE - 2014
Don Brader
3:20 A REVIEW OF PUBLISHED LITERATURE ON CRAPPIE SUPPLEMENTAL STOCKING
Greyson F. Farris (S)* and Steve E. Lochmann
3:40 ANGLER CATCH OF CHANNEL CATFISH STOCKED IN ARKANSAS LAKES AND STREAMS
Jeffrey W. Quinn* and Diana Andrews
4:00 TRENDS IN ARKANSAS TROUT STOCKING FROM 2004-2014
Christy L. Graham* and B. Kyle Swallow
4:20 RELATIONS BETWEEN AGE-0 AND AGE-1 LARGEMOUTH BASS RELATIVE ABUNDANCE AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON STOCK ENHANCEMENT DECISIONS
Steve Lochmann*, Stan Todd, and Jason Miller
4:40 THE TROUT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM’S STOCKING RAFT OPERATION
Kent L. Coffey* and Christy L. Graham
* Denotes presenter
(S) Denotes student
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WEDNESDAY – 25 FEBRUARY 2015
STUDENT POSTER SESSION 5:00-6:00 PM
DOES ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT MEDIATE STREAM BIOLOGICAL RESPONSES TO ANTHROPOGENIC IMPACTS?
Lucy Baker (S)*, Sally Entrekin, and Michelle Evans-White
THE INFLUENCE OF FISH SIZE AND ABUNDANCE ON PATTERS OF ENERGY ALLOCATION IN WATERSNAKES
Jeremy D. Chamberlain (S)* and Matthew E. Gifford
OPTIMAL FEED RATIONS FOR JUVENILE ALLIGATOR GAR ATRACTOSTEUS SPATULA REARED IN RECIRCULATING SYSTEMS
Tim A. Clay (S)*, Allyse M. Ferrara, and Quenton C. Fontenot
WHAT’S YOUR LIFE HISTORY STRATEGY? RESPONSE OF ORANGETHROAT DARTER (ETHEOSTOMA SPECTABILE) TO NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT ON THE FAYETTEVILLE SHALE GAS PLAY
Brittany Furtado (S)*, Ginny Adams, and Reid Adams
HURRICANE LAKE PRIVATE RESERVOIR FISH POPULATION ANALYSIS BY BIO-INDICATION AND WATER QUALITY
Cameron C. Ivie (S)*, Kelsey Reed, and Forrest Payne
INVESTINGATING GENETIC BASIS OF MIGRATORY TIMING USING CIRCADIAN CLOCK GENES IN SPRING CHINOOK SALMON (ONCORHYNCHUS TSHAWYTSCHA)
Samuel J. Shry (S)*, Melissa L. Evans, Dave Jacobsen, Nicholas M. Sard, Kathleen O’Malley
* Denotes presenter
(S) Denotes student
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THURSDAY – 26 FEBRUARY 2015
Session 1 – Fish Management Moderator: Matt Schroeder 8:00 – 9:45 AM
8:15 EFFECTS OF A 9-INCH MINIMUM LENGTH LIMIT ON ANGLER EXPLOITATION OF BLACK AND WHITE CRAPPIE, AT HARRIS BRAKE LAKE, ARKANSAS
Matthew L. Horton*, Matthew D. Schroeder, and Thomas R. Bly
8:30 EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVE TANDEM HOOP NET SAMPLE SIZE FOR CHANNEL CATFISH ICTALURUS PUNCTATUS POPULATIONS IN RESERVOIRS
Philip B. Malone (S)* and John R. Jackson
8:45 EVALUATION OF SAMPLING METHODS USED TO COLLECT CATFISH IN SOUTH ARKANSAS WATERS
Jason Olive
9:00 LARGEMOUTH BASS RECRUITMENT IN SOUTHEASTERN ARKANSAS LAKES
Anthony V. Fernando (S)* and Michael A. Eggleton
9:15 AN ASSESSMENT OF SAUGER POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS ON TWO TENNESSEE RIVER RESERVOIRS
Christy L. Graham*, Phillip W. Bettoli, and Timothy N. Churchill
9:30 REVIEW AND UPDATE ON THE NORTHERN SNAKEHEAD CHANNA ARGUS POPULATION IN EASTERN ARKANSAS
Justin Homan* and Micah Tindall
9:45 BREAK – 15 MINTUES
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THURSDAY – 26 FEBRUARY 2015
Session 2 – Nongame Fish Moderator: Justin Homan 10:00 – 11:30 AM
10:00 PRESENCE/ABSENCE ANALYSIS OF HISTORICAL DATA ON THE STRAWBERRY DARTER.
Kyler B. Hecke (S)* and Steve E. Lochmann
10:15 POPULATION DEMOGRAPHICS OF AMERICAN EELS IN THE OUACHITA AND WHITE RIVER SYSTEMS, ARKANSAS
Casey A. Cox*, Jeffrey W. Quinn, Lindsey C. Lewis, S. Reid Adams, Ginny L. Adams
10:30 TRACKING MARINE-FRESHWATER MOVEMENT PATTERNS OF STRIPED MULLET, MUGIL CEPHLUS, IN THE LOWER ARKANSAS RIVER USING OTOLITH MICROCHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Garrett Grimes (S)*, Lindsey Lewis, Reid Adams, and Ginny Adams
10:45 ASPECTS OF THE REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF A CATADROMOUS SPECIES, MUGIL CEPHALUS, IN THE LOWER ARKANSAS RIVER
Kristin Caserta (S)*, Garrett Grimes, Lindsey Lewis, Reid Adams, and Ginny Adams
11:00 MOVEMENT, HABITAT USE, REPRODUCTION, AND MORTALITY OF PADDLEFISH
POLYODON SPATHULA IN LAKE DARDANELLE, ARKANSAS
Adam R. Geik (S)* and Joseph N. Stoeckel
11:15 MULTI-LEVEL ANALYSES OF FISH ASSEMBLAGE RESPONSES TO NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT ON THE FAYETTEVILLE SHALE, ARKANSAS
Brittany V. Furtado (S)*, Jessie J. Green, Loren Stearman, Ginny Adams, and Reid Adams
11:30 am to 1:00 pm - Lunch on your own
* Denotes presenter
(S) Denotes student
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THURSDAY – 26 FEBRUARY 2015
Session 3 – Stream ecology Moderator: Dr. Dan Magoulick 1:00 – 2:00 PM
1:00 MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATION IN CAMPOSTOMA ANOMALUM ACROSS HYDROLOGIC REGIMES
Lindsey A. Bruckerhoff (S)*and Daniel D. Magoulick
1:15 FLOW-ECOLOGY RELATIONSHIPS IN THE OZARK HIGHLANDS
Dustin T. Lynch (S)* and Daniel D. Magoulick
1:30 A NOVEL MODELING APPROACH FOR DERIVING HYDROLOGIC ALTERATION VALUES FOR MISSISSIPPI ALLUVIAL PLAIN STREAMS
Rheannon Hart, Brian Breaker*, and James Petersen
1:45 CHANGES IN LAND USE AND FISH ASSEMBLAGES IN TWO OZARK HIGHLAND STREAMS OVER FOUR DECADES
Heather Allaben Saco (S)*, Ginny Adams and Reid Adams
2:00 EFFECTS OF AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT ON STREAM WATER QUALITY, HABITAT QUALITY, AND MACROINVERTEBRATE AND FISH COMMINUTIES OF THE LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER BASIN IN SOUTHEAST ARKANSAS
Christopher T. Laskodi (S)*, Yushun Chen, and Steve Lochmann
2:15 BREAK – 15 MINUTES
* Denotes presenter
(S) Denotes student
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THURSDAY – 26 FEBRUARY 2015
Session 4 – Ecology Moderator: Jason Throneberry 2:30 – 3:15 PM
2:30 CHARACTERISTICS OF WATER QUALITY AND FISH COMMUNITY STRUCTURE IN MEDIUM SIZE MISSISSIPPI ALLUVIAL PLAIN FOREST AND AGRICULTURE STREAMS
Matthew L. Skoog (S)*, Christopher T. Laskodi, Yushun Chen, and Michael A. Eggleton
2:45 FORCASTING THE EFFECTS OF ANGLER HARVEST AND CLIMATE CHANGE ON SMALLMOUTH BASS ABUNDANCE IN THE BUFFALO RIVER, AR
Chris Middaugh (S)* and Dan Magoulick
3:00 RELATIONS OF CRAPPIE (POMOXIS SPP.) ABUNDANCE AND SIZE STRUCTURE TO HYDROLOGIC CONNECTIVITY OF OXBOWS IN THE DALE BUMPERS WHITE RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ARKANSAS
Arthur Hitchcock, Roger Holt, Justin Homan, Billy Justus*, Micah Tindall
3:15 FACTORS AFFECTING FISH ASSEMBLAGES IN FLOODPLAIN LAKES OF THE OUACHITA RIVER VALLEY
Jason Olive*, Andy Yung, Julieann Jacobs
3:30 BREAK – 15 MINUTES
* Denotes presenter
(S) Denotes student
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THURSDAY – 26 FEBRUARY 2015
Session 5 – Biology Moderator: Tate Wentz 3:45 -5:15 PM
3:45 BACTERIA CHARACTERIZATION OF BIG CREEK AND BUFFALO RIVER NEAR CARVER ACCESS
Faron D. Usrey* and Shawn Hodges
4:00 LAKE CONWAY SEDIMENTS SUGGEST DETERIORATING WATER QUALITY
Byron A. Winston* and Thad Scott
4:15 WINTER PRODUCTION OF GOLDEN SHINERS NOTEMIGONUS CRYSOLEUCAS IN SPLIT AND TRADITIONAL EARTHEN PONDS
Matthew A. Smith (S)* and Nathan Stone
4:30 ACCURACY AND PRECISION OF A STEREOPHOTO MEASUREMENT SYSTEM USING CONSUMER GRADE WEB CAMERAS ON FISHES
Nathan Ford*, Anthony V. Fernando, and Michael A. Eggleton
4:45 EPISTEMOLOGY OF AQUARIUM FISH THERMAL TOLERANCE
Anthony V. Fernando
5:00 PROOF OF CONCEPT: MOLECULAR MARKERS TO TRACK AN AQUATIC INVASIVE PLANT, HYDRILLA VERTICILLATA
Whitney Anthonysamy*, Kevin Irons, Marlis Douglas, and Michael Douglas
* Denotes presenter
(S) Denotes student
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MEETING ABSTRACTS (Alphabetical by 1st Author last name)
PROOF OF CONCEPT: MOLECULAR MARKERS TO TRACK AN AQUATIC INVASIVE PLANT, HYDRILLA VERTICILLATA
Whitney Anthonysamy1*, Kevin Irons2, Marlis Douglas1 and Michael Douglas1
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, 850 W Dickson Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701, [email protected] 2Aquaculture and Aquatic Nuisance Species Program, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702
Studies in invasion ecology have increased exponentially since 1975, concomitant with growing numbers of non-native introductions via global trade and transportation. Indirect approaches, such as use of molecular markers to infer genetic patterns within and among populations of invasive species, are useful for quantifying sources and routes of invasion and can substantially augment policies and practices needed to understand and manage invasives. Our study is a “Proof of Concept” for the use of molecular approaches in monitoring the spread of Hydrilla verticillata, a submerged aquatic invasive plant [Family Hydrocharitaceae] with a life history of unusually rapid and clonal growth. It forms dense floating canopies that chokes waterways and disrupts natural ecosystems. We developed a protocol for collecting samples of monoecious and dioecious Hydrilla biotypes and are exploring molecular genetic techniques to develop a tool to track dispersal of Hydrilla into new areas and to identify potential source populations for its spread. Understanding the mechanisms and pathways of successful invasions will elevate the efficiency of control efforts and improve the conservation and management of inland waterways and their biodiversity.
Oral - professional
DOES ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT MEDIATE STREAM BIOLOGICAL RESPONSES TO ANTHROPOGENIC IMPACTS?
Lucy Baker*1, Sally Entrekin1, Michelle Evans-White2 1University of Central Arkansas, 201 Donaghey Ave, Conway, AR 72035 2University of Arkansas , Science and Engineering 601, Fayetteville, AR 72701 [email protected], [email protected]
Arkansas streams support clean water for downstream drinking, swimming and fishing in central Arkansas, as well as support a diverse community of invertebrates, fish and algae. These streams drain a variety of land uses, specifically energy extraction and agriculture that can reduce water quality. Some catchments are more sensitive than others to land alteration and sedimentation. Variation in catchment soil erosive potential and slope, may predict the magnitude of biological responses following disturbances. Our previous research quantified 50% of Hydraulic Unit Code 12 catchments in the Fayetteville Shale as sensitive. Our objective is to compare the rate of biological change in streams draining catchments with varying exposure levels to a suite catchment sensitivity. Benthic macroinvertebrates will be sampled in ten streams draining sensitive catchments along a gradient of agriculture, ten streams draining sensitive catchments across a gradient of gas well activity, ten streams draining less sensitive catchments across a gradient of agriculture, and ten streams draining less sensitive catchments across a gradient of gas well activity. We predict the rate of biological change will be greatest in naturally sensitive catchments along a gradient of gas well activity. We explore study site selection and statistical design in our presentation.
Poster - student
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ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH COMMISSION’S WARMWATER FISH CULTURE - 2014
Don Brader Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, #2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205 [email protected]
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) maintains and operates 4 warmwater hatcheries, 1 net pen facility, and 1 caged fish facility for the purpose of stocking sportfish into public waters for fisheries management needs. These facilities have a long history of fisheries management support with the construction of the Joe Hogan Hatchery in 1928, only 13 years after the creation of the AGFC. Eighty Five years later, in 2014, over 11 million sportfish weighing 400,000 pounds were stocked into Arkansas’ public waters from these facilities.
Oral - professional
MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATION IN CAMPOSTOMA ANOMALUM ACROSS HYDROLOGIC REGIMES
Lindsey A. Bruckerhoff1*and Daniel D. Magoulick2 1Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 2U.S. Geological Survey, Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 [email protected]
Environmental heterogeneity in streams is largely determined by hydrologic regimes. Because hydrology controls many attributes of the physical environment, organisms adapt and evolve in response to maintained hydrologic regimes, which are increasingly threatened by climate change and anthropogenic alterations. Adaptations to flow may be the result of phenotypic plasticity or genetic divergence, both of which play roles in speciation and evolution. This research utilizes a comparative field study and mesocosm experiment to determine (1) if there are morphological differences between Campostoma anomalum inhabiting two distinct flow regimes and (2) whether phenotypic plasticity or genetic divergence is predominantly driving morphological variation in Campostoma anomalum across hydrologic gradients. We hypothesize Campostoma anomalum from hydrologically variable streams will exhibit smaller anterior body regions, larger caudal regions and less streamlined forms, while Campostoma anomalum from hydrologically stable streams will exhibit larger anterior body regions, smaller caudal regions and streamlined bodies. We also predict variation in body morphology is predominately due to genetic divergence between populations. This study provides insight into the evolutionary consequences of disrupting natural hydrologic patterns and ecological-flow relationships necessary for setting environmental flow standards.
Oral - student
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ASPECTS OF THE REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF A CATADROMOUS SPECIES, MUGIL CEPHALUS, IN THE LOWER ARKANSAS RIVER
Kristin Caserta1*, Garrett Grimes1, Lindsey Lewis2, Reid Adams1, and Ginny Adams1 1University of Central Arkansas, Lewis Science Center, 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway, AR 72035 2U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 110 Amity Rd #300, Conway, AR 72032 [email protected]
We are studying a population of striped mullet (Mugil cephalus) approximately 940 km from the Gulf of Mexico in the Lower Arkansas River, hypothesized to exhibit catadromous behavior, spawning in the Gulf from December to February. Our objective is to study reproductive biology (gonadal development) of fish while in the lower Arkansas system to further understand the life history strategy of this population. Fish were collected in the main channel downstream of Wilbur D. Mills Dam (Dam #2) and at a nearby oxbow, Morgan Point Bendway Lake, where fish are semi-isolated and impeded from migrating to spawn. Fish were collected in October and December 2014, and length, weight, age, gonadosomatic index (GSI), and gonadal stage were determined. Sex ratio was highly skewed towards females. In the oxbow lake mullet, mean female GSI (n= 40) increased from 8.8% to 21.9%, and male (n= 6) GSI increased from 8.1% to 24.3%. Female (n=27) and male (n= 3) GSI in the channel mullet were similar to theoxbow lake mullet in October, but remained low in December. Oxbow lake mullet appear to be following a gonadal development pattern similar to marine residents, while channel mullet reflect outmigration by spawners and/or capture of fish that will not spawn this cycle.
Oral - student
THE INFLUENCE OF FISH SIZE AND ABUNDANCE ON PATTERS OF ENERGY ALLOCATION IN WATERSNAKES
Jeremy D. Chamberlain1* and Matthew E. Gifford 2 1 University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Department of Biology, 2801 S. University Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72204 2 University of Central Arkansas, Department of Biology, 201 Donaghey Avenue, Conway, AR 72035 [email protected]
Fat is utilized for a variety of functions within the body including growth and reproduction. Variation in fat storage and use is predicted to be a function of prey availability and size. Energetic demands often change throughout the year and are associated with reproductive activity. Spatial variation in the availability and size of prey could drive population−level differences in patterns of energy allocation. In this study we test the hypothesis that prey availability will influence the amplitude of annual fat−cycling, reproductive output, neonate growth, and adult body sizes in diamondback watersnakes (Nerodia rhombifer). We studied watersnakes from five sites that varied in prey size and abundance (two fish farms producing large prey, two producing small prey, and one lake site with variable prey size and abundance). Populations were sampled monthly (2012-2014) for variation in fat mass and adult body size. Approximately twenty-five reproductive females were captured and allowed to give birth in lab to measure annual reproductive output. Forty neonates from each population were reared in lab examine differential growth rates.Prey size and type exhibit a strong influence on the life-history allocation patterns of each population. Further investigation is required to understand the mechanisms allowing these trade-offs to occur.
Poster - student
14
OPTIMAL FEED RATIONS FOR JUVENILE ALLIGATOR GAR ATRACTOSTEUS SPATULA REARED IN RECIRCULATING SYSTEMS
Tim A. Clay1,2*, Allyse M. Ferrara2, and Quenton C. Fontenot2 1University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Department of Biology, 2801 S. University Ave., Little Rock, AR 72204 2Bayousphere Research Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA 70310 [email protected],
Methods to culture alligator gar Atractosteus spatula are being refined to restore native populations and to potentially supplement the commercial market. Of particular concern for any aquaculture species is the optimal feed ration for minimal feed conversion rates (FCR) and maximal specific growth rate (SGR). To determine these variables juvenile alligator gar were fed 1, 2, 4, or 8% of body weight (BW) daily split among 3 feedings over the course of 21 days. Weight, total length, and SGR were highest in fishes fed 8% of BW. Fish fed 1 or 2% of BW had a lower FCR than those fed 8% of BW. Based on ANOVA results, juvenile alligator gar should be fed between 4 and 8% BW in feed to maximize SGR and minimize FCR. Based on estimated curves, FCR was lowest at 4.1% of BW and SGR was highest at 6.2 BW%. The results of this study have outlined a feeding regime that can optimize growth for juvenile alligator gar and have further refined our knowledge of alligator gar culture.
Poster - student
THE TROUT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM’S STOCKING RAFT OPERATION
Kent L. Coffey* and Christy L. Graham Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 201 E. 5th Street, Mountain Home, AR 72653 [email protected]
Raft stocking of trout by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) began in 1970. The stocking raft was a management tool used to distribute trout more evenly in the rivers, especially between remote access points. It was also viewed as a useful and effective public relations tool due to its visibility on the river. Initially, trout were raft-stocked in the Little Red, White, and Norfork rivers. However, due to increased angler access areas and expansion of the Norfork catch and release area, the stocking raft is now used exclusively on the White River below Bull Shoals Dam. Early in 2001, the AGFC Trout Management Program expanded their stocking-raft program to include a full-time person whose responsibility was the operation of the raft used to stock rainbow trout from the Jim Hinkle Spring River State Fish Hatchery and Norfork National Fish Hatchery. Since that time, approximately 6.4 million rainbow trout have been raft-stocked in the White and Norfork rivers.
Oral - professional
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POPULATION DEMOGRAPHICS OF AMERICAN EELS IN THE OUACHITA AND WHITE RIVER SYSTEMS, ARKANSAS
Casey A. Cox*1,2, Jeffrey W. Quinn2 , Lindsey C. Lewis 3, S. Reid Adams1, Ginny L. Adams1 1University of Central Arkansas, Department of Biology, 201 S. Donaghey Ave., Conway, AR 72035 2 Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205 3United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services Office, 110 S. Amity, Suite 300, Conway, AR 72032 [email protected]
A comprehensive, range-wide understanding of American eel status and life history is important for guiding international management decisions, but limited data exist for rivers discharging into the Gulf of Mexico. The goal of this study was to compare life-history of American eels in two river systems in Arkansas that ultimately discharge into the Gulf of Mexico. From 21 June 2011 – 24 April 2014, we captured 238 eels in the middle Ouachita Basin using boat electrofishing and 39 eels in the lower White River using multiple gears. Mean length at age 4 (i.e., youngest shared age) was 150 mm greater for the White River than the Ouachita Basin. Eels entering the White River appeared to have a greater arrival length that enabled attainment of GSI maturation threshold up to 4 years earlier, and initiation of downstream migration up to 5 years earlier at 100 mm greater length. Growth and maturation of eels in this study were more similar to southern populations along the Atlantic Coast than other inland populations. We propose that Gulf of Mexico catchments may be valuable production areas for American eels and data from these systems should be considered as range-wide protection and management plans are being developed.
Oral - professional
A REVIEW OF PUBLISHED LITERATURE ON CRAPPIE SUPPLEMENTAL STOCKING
Greyson F. Farris* and Steve E. Lochmann Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. 1200 N. University Drive Pine Bluff, AR 71601 [email protected]
There is a wide range of methods and procedures that fisheries managers may employ during crappie supplemental stocking efforts. The influence of specific choices among the procedures, on stocking success is unclear. We summarized the methods and procedures used in seven published studies concerning crappie stocking. Our analysis focused primarily on published literature that utilized chemical marking as a method for estimating year-class contribution. We analyzed sixty-six separate stocking events that occurred between 1980 and 2014. Simple linear regression analysis of contribution versus number of fish stocked (P- 0.35), stocking density (P- 0.10), lake size (P- 0.12), and size of fish (P- 0.61) did not produce any significant relationships. High variability in handling mortality may be confounding relationships between stocking density or mean length at stocking and hatchery contribution to year classes. There are many different aspects of the stocking process that can influence the future of hatchery fish. It is unclear which aspects are most important to crappie survival and stocking success.
Oral - student
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EPISTEMOLOGY OF AQUARIUM FISH THERMAL TOLERANCE
Anthony V. Fernando University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 N. University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR, 71601 [email protected]
Tables of fish species common in the ornamental fish trade were concatenated from four recent peer-reviewed papers that assessed invasion risk in disparate geographic areas. Each of these papers relied on the FishBase database to estimate overwintering capacity of these species. For each species, the source of FishBase’s data was determined. Systematic review of the popular web and scientific literature was conducted to estimate minimum thermal tolerance of the neon tetra and cardinal tetra. Of 61 species listed in the risk assessments, FishBase provided thermal range information for 57 species. In 52 cases, FishBase referenced handbooks for aquarium enthusiasts that provided recommendations for aquarium temperature rather than ecological limits. Of the 80 websites concerning cardinal tetras, 13 were anecdotal, three referenced other websites, and the remainder was unsourced. Of 130 websites concerning neon tetras, 17 were anecdotal, one referenced FishBase, one referenced an extension publication, and the remainder was unsourced. No peer-reviewed literature was found examining minimum thermal tolerance in neon tetras. Peer-reviewed literature for cardinal tetra thermal tolerance (n=2) suggested the species can tolerate lower temperatures than suggested on popular websites or FishBase. Improper estimation of an animal’s ability to overwinter may lead to underestimating invasion potential.
Oral - student
LARGEMOUTH BASS RECRUITMENT IN SOUTHEASTERN ARKANSAS LAKES
Anthony V. Fernando* and Michael A. Eggleton University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 N. University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR, 71601 [email protected]
Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides is the most popular sport fish in Arkansas, yet recruitment dynamics are not well understood for this species. Eight lakes in southeastern Arkansas, ranging in size from 105-688 ha, were monitored from May 2013 – May 2014. Relative abundance of adult and juvenile (i.e., age-0) bass was determined by periodic boat-mounted electrofishing. Standard water quality was measured along vertical profiles within each lake, with sidescan sonar and satellite imagery used to quantify lake-specific physical characteristics. Stock-recruit relationships were examined using linearized forms of the Beverton-Holt and Ricker stock-recruitment models. Exhaustive regression (ER) was used to identify other models of bass recruitment, with models selected on the basis of minimized AIC. Age-0 bass CPUE in July and October 2013 were well predicted by both standard models (R2 = 0.81-0.92), though May 2014 age-1 CPUE was not well predicted by the previous year’s adult stock size (R2 = 0.39-0.57). The best ER models for July age-0 bass CPUE incorporated predominantly spring adult spawning stock size and hydrologic variables. However, the best models using October 2013 and May 2014 age-0 bass CPUE incorporated water quality and lake-specific physical parameters, suggestive of a recruitment bottleneck occurring in late fall or winter.
Oral - student
17
ACCURACY AND PRECISION OF A STEREOPHOTO MEASUREMENT SYSTEM USING CONSUMER GRADE WEB CAMERAS ON FISHES
Nathan Ford*, Anthony V. Fernando, and Michael A. Eggleton University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 N. University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR, 71601 [email protected]
Measurements of fish length are generally conducted using a measuring board. However, this induces stress, which may impact physiology for several days. Stereophoto measurement permits determination of fish length without inducing handling stress. To address this question, two webcams were calibrated using an open source computer vision library (OpenCV). A shell script captured simultaneous images, which were then rectified using OpenCV routines. Lengths were determined from rectified images using trigonometry. We measured targets of known size: a test array (in air and under water), and preserved and live fish specimens (under water). The influence of distance from camera, horizontal angle, and vertical angle were assessed using one-way ANOVA. In air, measurement error increased significantly as distance to camera increased (F3,123 = 1.841, P = 0.002), though no significant differences in error were found from horizontal (F3,123 = 1.841, P = 0.143) or vertical angle (F8,123 = 0.548, P = 0.818) of the target. Under water, no significant influence on error was found from distance to camera (F1,45 = 0.509, P = 0.4792), horizontal angle (F3,45 = 2.437, P = 0.0769), or vertical angle (F8,45 = 1.038, P = 0.422) of the target. However, measurement error of fish specimens was moderately high (18.9 ± 2.4 mm, Mean ± SE), which limited the usefulness of the system.
Oral: Undergraduate Student
MULTI-LEVEL ANALYSES OF FISH ASSEMBLAGE RESPONSES TO NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT ON THE FAYETTEVILLE SHALE, ARKANSAS
Brittany V. Furtado*, Jessie J. Green, Loren Stearman, Ginny Adams, and Reid Adams University of Central Arkansas1, Lewis Science Center, Conway, AR, 72035 [email protected]
Natural gas has been popularized globally as a “bridge” fuel to renewable energy sources and is expected to account for 26% of the total U.S. energy use by 2035, second only to petroleum. Although research on the impact of hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling is steadily increasing, there is still a paucity of data concerning biotic responses to natural gas extraction from unconventional sources. The Fayetteville Shale has seen exponential natural gas development (NGD) in the last ten years and currently has over 5,000 active wells. We sampled sites across the Fayetteville Shale in north central Arkansas annually in the spring for five years (2010-2014). Fishes were quantitatively sampled using backpack electrofishing and multi-pass depletion techniques. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling analysis with species abundance data showed strong links between gas well activity and several fish species including: Etheostoma whipplei, Notropis boops, Noturus exilis, Lepomis cyanellus, Lepomis megalotis, and Semotilus atromaculatus. Preliminary data analyses indicate differential responses from taxa that have been identified as sensitive to disturbance. Univariate species-level analyses of these species of interest will be presented.
Oral - student
18
WHAT’S YOUR LIFE HISTORY STRATEGY? RESPONSE OF ORANGETHROAT DARTER (ETHEOSTOMA SPECTABILE) TO NATURAL GAS DEVELOPMENT ON THE FAYETTEVILLE SHALE GAS PLAY
Brittany Furtado*, Ginny Adams, and Reid Adams University of Central Arkansas, Lewis Science Center, Conway, AR, 72035 [email protected]
Natural gas extraction from unconventional sources is a practice that has grown exponentially in Arkansas over the last 15 years due to advances in technologies like hydraulic fracturing. Natural gas development (NGD) on the Fayetteville Shale alone has occurred at a rate of 700-900 new wells drilled/year. The impact of these practices on aquatic systems includes increases in fine sediments and increasing concentrations of nickel and lead, as well as contamination of surface waters from leaks and spills. Previous studies have also found biotic responses to NGD including decreases in sensitive taxa and simple lithophilic spawners, and increases in tolerant taxa like green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus). Plastic responses, including alteration of sex ratios, mean clutch size, and overall reproductive investment (measured as GSI), have been observed in populations of redfin darter (Etheostoma whipplei) in response to higher levels of NGD. For this study reproductive characteristics of eight populations of orangethroat darter (Etheostoma spectabile) exposed to varying levels of natural gas development were analyzed. Fishes were collected once a month between March-May 2012 at eight sites representing a gradient of gas well densities. Data including GSI, mean clutch size, mean oocyte diameter, mean oocyte mass, and sex ratio will be presented.
Poster - student
MOVEMENT, HABITAT USE, REPRODUCTION, AND MORTALITY OF PADDLEFISH POLYODON SPATHULA IN LAKE DARDANELLE, ARKANSAS
Adam R. Geik* and Joseph N. Stoeckel Arkansas Tech University, Fisheries Department, 1701 N Boulder Avenue, Russellville, AR 72801 [email protected]
Paddlefish Polyodon spathula are an important commercial and recreational species throughout much of their range including Lake Dardanelle, Arkansas. While fecundity, mortality, and age and growth of paddlefish stocks in Lake Dardanelle have been assessed previously, no studies have investigated their movements, habitat utilization, or reproduction in the reservoir. Knowledge gained from this study will help managers maintain a productive paddlefish population in Lake Dardanelle. Fifty-seven paddlefish from Lake Dardanelle have been implanted with ultrasonic transmitters. Monthly tracking began in September 2014 and will continue through the next year. Habitat selection will be analyzed by overlaying observed paddlefish locations on a map with delineated habitat types and comparing percentage of habitat types chosen with percentage of habitat type available. Lake Dardanelle has a tailwater area and several tributaries that likely provide suitable paddlefish spawning habitat. Potential spawning sites will be located by tracking fish during the spawning season. Egg and/or larvae samples will be collected to confirm spawning locations. Commercial, recreational, and natural mortality estimates will be determined based on censorships and the number of transmitters returned by fisherman.
Oral: student
19
AN ASSESSMENT OF SAUGER POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS ON TWO TENNESSEE RIVER RESERVOIRS
Christy L. Graham1*, Phillip W. Bettoli2, and Timothy N. Churchill3 1Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 201 E. 5th Street, Mountain Home, AR 72653 2U.S. Geological Survey, Tennessee Cooperative Fishery Research Unit 3Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency [email protected]
In 1992, minimum length limits (MLLs) were enacted on Kentucky Lake and Watts Bar Lake, two reservoirs on the Tennessee River, in an attempt to reduce exploitation and improve size structures of sauger populations. Two objectives of this study were to compare sauger population characteristics immediately following and fifteen years after the regulations took effect and assess the current likelihood of overfishing. Saugers were collected with experimental gill nets and aged using otoliths. Yield-per-recruit models were used to simulate angler yields and estimate the likelihood of growth overfishing. Recruitment overfishing was assessed by examining spawning potential ratios under various MLL and exploitation rate scenarios. The sauger population in Kentucky Lake experienced modest improvements in size and age structure over the 15 years following enactment of more restrictive harvest regulations, whereas the population in Watts Bar Lake changed very little, if at all, in terms of size and age structure. Neither population exhibited signs of growth overfishing in 2008-09 under the current MLLs. These analyses demonstrated that the Watts Bar Lake and Kentucky Lake populations, in terms of size and age structure, have remained relatively stable over 15+ years and the MLLs appear to be conserving the stocks.
Oral - professional
TRENDS IN ARKANSAS TROUT STOCKING FROM 2004-2014
Christy L. Graham* and B. Kyle Swallow Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 201 E. 5th Street, Mountain Home, AR 72653 [email protected]
Arkansas trout fisheries are highly dependent upon hatchery production and stocking because natural reproduction is non-existent or inadequate to sustain the fisheries in most areas. Statewide, over 2.4 million rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout are stocked each year. Rainbow trout are stocked at an average size of eleven inches, while the other three species are stocked at an average size of 6 to 8 inches. Although the total number of trout stocked has not changed significantly since 2004, stocking distributions have changed as a result of increased fishing opportunities and changes in management strategies. When recommending stocking numbers, the AGFC takes into account angler effort, catch, and harvest rates from creel surveys; however, more emphasis should be placed on biological monitoring that would help us evaluate the potential impacts of stocking on trout survival and growth. The purpose of this talk is to discuss trends in Arkansas trout stocking over the last ten years and to identify areas where improvements in trout stocking can be made.
Oral - professional
20
TRACKING MARINE-FRESHWATER MOVEMENT PATTERNS OF STRIPED MULLET, MUGIL CEPHLUS, IN THE LOWER ARKANSAS RIVER USING OTOLITH MICROCHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Garrett Grimes¹*, Lindsey Lewis², Reid Adams¹, and Ginny Adams¹ 1University of Central Arkansas, Lewis Science Center, 201 Donaghey Ave., Conway, AR 72035 2U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 110 Amity Rd #300, Conway, AR 72032 [email protected]
Striped mullet, Mugil cephalus, is a marine spawning euryhaline fish found in the Gulf of Mexico and its bordering estuaries and freshwater rivers. Recently, a relatively large population was found in the lower Arkansas River, 940km from the Gulf. As part of an investigation into life history strategies of an inland population, 22 striped mullet were selected from collections made in 2012-2013 to trace movements from the Gulf of Mexico to the Arkansas River. Otoliths were removed, sectioned, and polished; then Sr:Ca ratios were traced using laser ablation inter coupled mass spectrometry from the core region to the outer edge of the otolith. Elemental analysis revealed most (N=17) striped mullet age 1-6yrs permanently entered freshwater very early in life (<1years old). However, several fish (age=2-6yrs) entered later in life at around 1-4 years old (N=5). Chronologically, chemical signatures indicated recently spawned mullet were promptly present in low salinity waters indicative of an estuarine environment, entered freshwater, and remained in freshwater until collected in the Arkansas River. More data are needed to determine exact location of natal habitat, river preference, and if inland movements are influenced by offshore weather patterns, water quality/flow conditions, or marine-freshwater connectivity.
Oral - student
A NOVEL MODELING APPROACH FOR DERIVING HYDROLOGIC ALTERATION VALUES FOR MISSISSIPPI ALLUVIAL PLAIN STREAMS
Rheannon Hart, Brian Breaker*, and James Petersen U.S. Geological Survey, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, 401 Hardin Road, Little Rock, AR 72211 [email protected]
The degree of hydrologic alteration must be quantified in order to understand the ecological effects of hydrologic alteration on aquatic communities. Quantifying hydrologic alteration in the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP) is particularly difficult because of the absence of reference/least-disturbed sites within the MAP. Agricultural withdrawals in the MAP increased substantially beginning about 1960 suggesting that agricultural practices would substantially affect streamflow after this time period. To overcome the lack of active reference sites, historical streamflow data were used to estimate reference conditions. Sites with at least 5 years of data prior to 1960 were considered as reference sites. After removal of sites that had dams, channelization, etc., 68 sites (down from 128) were available to define reference conditions.
To quantify hydrologic alteration for the MAP, observed values (O) for several streamflow characteristics were obtained using the selected reference sites. Regression analysis was performed using random forest, with explanatory variables such as climate, topography, soils, and geology, to calculate expected streamflow values (E) for the pre- and post-1960 periods. Observed streamflow values calculated from daily streamflow data at the reference gages, for the reference period, were compared to expected streamflow values from streamflow data estimated from the random forest regression model to evaluate model performance. Observed streamflow values calculated from daily streamflow data at the reference gages were compared to expected streamflow values in order to quantify the degree of hydrologic alteration by evaluating the ratio of O over E.
Oral – professional
21
PRESENCE/ABSENCE ANALYSIS OF HISTORICAL DATA ON THE STRAWBERRY DARTER.
Kyler B. Hecke* and Steve E. Lochmann University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 N. University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR 71601 [email protected].
The Strawberry Darter (Etheostoma fragi Distler 1968) was identified as a species of greatest conservation need in the Arkansas Wildlife Action Plan. The Strawberry Darter is endemic to the Strawberry River drainage and was recently elevated from the subspecies to the species level. Abundance and distribution of this species has been studied, but the most recent survey occurred more than 16 years ago. Prior to the initiation of a new survey, a retrospective analysis was conducted to examine historical patterns in the temporal and spatial distributions of the Strawberry Darter. We acquired historical data from 35 studies covering a period of 46 years and analyzed the data using the program Presence. Our analyses did not suggest a systematic decline in the occupancy rate of Strawberry Darter over the period examined. The mean ±SD occupancy rate was generally higher in tributaries (0.81±0.10) than the main stem (0.32 ± 0.39). Occupancy rate monotonically declined from the upper reach (0.60±0.52) to the middle (0.31±0.48) and lower (0.11±0.33) reaches of the main stem of the Strawberry River. The results from this retrospective analysis provide a foundation for designing and executing a new survey of the status and distribution of Strawberry Darter, based on a presence/absence sampling design.
Oral - student
RELATIONS OF CRAPPIE (POMOXIS SPP.) ABUNDANCE AND SIZE STRUCTURE TO HYDROLOGIC CONNECTIVITY OF OXBOWS IN THE DALE BUMPERS WHITE RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, ARKANSAS
Arthur Hitchcock1, Roger Holt2, Justin Homan3, Billy Justus4*, Micah Tindall3
1 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge, 57 South CC Camp Road, St. Charles, AR 2 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Wildlife Refuge System Inventory & Monitoring Network, 2700 Refuge Headquarters Road, Decatur, AL 3 Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, Brinkley Regional Office, 1201 Hwy 49 North, Brinkley, AR 4 U.S. Geological Survey, Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center, 401 Hardin Road, Little Rock, AR [email protected]
The Dale Bumpers White River National Wildlife Refuge is located between Clarendon, Arkansas and the confluence of the White and Mississippi Rivers, a distance of about 91 river miles. This 160,000 acre refuge contains approximately 350 oxbow lakes of various sizes and hydrologic connectivity to the lower White River. Crappie (Pomoxis spp.) are the most sought after sport fish, and a better understanding of the factors that influence crappie is needed. Oxbow lakes are hydrologically open systems but during periods of hydrologic isolation, crappie are often exposed to variable water quality; high rates of predation by fish, avian, and mammalian predators; and high rates of angling harvest. However, it is possible that recruitment from adjacent rivers during times of hydrologic connectivity may compensate for or exceed the amount of exploitation and mortality from angling pressure, predation, and water-quality stressors. Our three agencies have initiated what we hope to be a long-term study to improve understanding of how crappie abundance and age or size class characteristics fluctuate in relation to hydrologic connectivity for selected oxbows. This study will compare hydrologic metrics related to flood duration, extent, and timing to crappie metrics related to abundance, age, and size.
Oral – professional
22
REVIEW AND UPDATE ON THE NORTHERN SNAKEHEAD CHANNA ARGUS POPULATION IN EASTERN ARKANSAS
Justin Homan* and Micah Tindall Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 1201 Hwy 49 N, Brinkley, AR 72021 [email protected]
A wild population of northern snakeheads was first confirmed in Arkansas in April 2008 in Piney Creek in eastern Arkansas. During March 2009, several agencies combined to form a large scale eradication effort of northern snakeheads via rotenone. Several hundred northern snakeheads were killed during the operation and it was considered a success. During 2014, we investigated reports from the public of northern snakeheads and sampled Big Creek via boat-mounted electrofishing to assess current species distribution. Public reports of northern snakeheads were confirmed at 11 sites, up to 48 km from the original sighting in 2008. Electrofishing at two sites on Big Creek yielded 410 individual fish, two of which were northern snakeheads. Most of the fish collected were from the families Cyprinidae, Centrachidae, and Catostomidae. Northern snakeheads are still present in the Big Creek drainage since the eradication attempt; however there have been no confirmed sightings outside of the drainage. Most of the confirmed sightings in 2014 were in the upstream portion of the Big Creek basin, which suggests that northern snakeheads have moved upstream from the original sighting location in 2008. More sampling is needed in the lower portion of Big Creek to determine downstream movement.
Oral - professional
EFFECTS OF A 9-INCH MINIMUM LENGTH LIMIT ON ANGLER EXPLOITATION OF BLACK AND WHITE CRAPPIE, AT HARRIS BRAKE LAKE, ARKANSAS
Matthew L. Horton*, Matthew D. Schroeder, and Thomas R. BlyArkansas Game and Fish Commission, 213 A Hwy. 89 South, Mayflower, AR 72106 [email protected]
Crappie exploitation rates are relatively unknown for Arkansas Lakes. To optimize the management of this species, angler catch, exploitation, and temporal patterns were determined with a tag reward exploitation study in 2012 and 2013 for crappie (Pomoxis spp.) in Harris Brake Lake, Arkansas. A 9-inch minimum length limit has been in effect since 2001. Catch curve analysis generated by trap net data (2010 and 2012) reveals an average total annual mortality of 60%. Due to our uncertainty with tagging mortality, adjusted annual angler exploitation was estimated over a range of 29% to 48%. Modeling indicates if the 9-inch minimum length limit (MLL) is removed, yield could decrease 22% to 34%, the number of 10-inch crappie harvested could decrease 33% to 56%, and the number of 12-inch crappie harvested could decrease 33% to 47%, while increasing total harvest by 20%. A 10-inch MLL could increase yield an additional 7% to 16% and increase the number of 10-inch and 12-inch crappie harvested by 22% to 47%, while only decreasing the total number of harvested crappie by 9%. Overall, modeling suggests the current 9-inch MLL is beneficial to the crappie population, however a 10-in MLL could produce added benefits to anglers.
Oral - professional
23
HURRICANE LAKE PRIVATE RESERVOIR FISH POPULATION ANALYSIS BY BIO-INDICATION AND WATER QUALITY
Cameron C. Ivie*, Kelsey Reed, and Forrest Payne University of Arkansas at Little Rock, 2801 S University Ave, Little Rock, AR 72204 [email protected], [email protected]. [email protected]
Hurricane Lake is a privately owned 375 acre impoundment located within the city of Benton, Arkansas. This small reservoir is controlled by the Hurricane Lake Estates (HLE) Property Owners Association and managed by the HLE Lake Committee. The main concern on Hurricane Lake is the decrease in the Crappie (Pomoxis annularis) population as well as the lake’s inability to perform as a productive trophy largemouth bass fishery. An additional concern for this lake includes siltation from on-going construction of new homes. With an increase in silting in the lake, nutrient levels may theoretically increase from this non-point source of pollution. Preliminary results indicate a summer stratification with no dissolved oxygen below 1.5m. Electrofishing conducted by AGFC concluded a large population of Micropterus salmoides (LMB) in the 10 to 15 inch range as opposed to very few over 16 inches. Results also showed a poor population of P. annularis (White Crappie). Parameters to be monitored include dissolved oxygen (DO mg/L), pH readings, chlorophyll a, water temperature (⁰C/⁰F), phosphorus, iron (Fe+), and Secchi disc transparency along with phytoplankton abundance. A creel census will be conducted for population dynamics of all relative fish species. Data will be analyzed and presented in the fall of 2015 to the HLE POA Board in December 2015.
Poster - student
EFFECTS OF AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT ON STREAM WATER QUALITY, HABITAT QUALITY, AND MACROINVERTEBRATE AND FISH COMMINUTIES OF THE LOWER MISSISSIPPI RIVER BASIN IN SOUTHEAST ARKANSAS
Christopher T. Laskodi1*, Yushun Chen2, and Steve Lochmann1 1University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture and Fisheries Department, 1200 N. University Dr., Mail Slot 4912, Pine Bluff, AR 71601 2 University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China [email protected]
The transition from bottomland forest to row-crop agriculture has transformed the landscape across the Lower Mississippi River Basin. This change has altered water and habitat quality as well as the biota within. The effects of row-crop agriculture are fairly well known in other parts of the United States; however, the Lower Mississippi River Basin is relatively unstudied. In addition, effects over the change of seasons are also unstudied. We examined the effects of row-crop agriculture and seasonality on water quality, habitat quality, benthic macroinvertebrate communities, and fish communities. We followed the USEPA Rapid Bioassessment Protocol to assess 1st and 2nd order streams. Fish communities were evaluated using mini-fyke nets. Several water and habitat quality parameters were significantly different between seasons and land-use type; however, very few fish community metrics were significantly affected by season and land-use.
Oral - student
24
RELATIONS BETWEEN AGE-0 AND AGE-1 LARGEMOUTH BASS RELATIVE ABUNDANCE AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON STOCK ENHANCEMENT DECISIONS
Steve Lochmann1*, Stan Todd2, and Jason Miller3 1University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture and Fisheries Department,1200 N. University Dr., Mail Slot 4912, Pine Bluff, AR 71601, 2Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 201 East 5th Street, Mountain Home, AR 72653 3Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 23 Joe Hogan Lane, Lonoke, AR 72086 [email protected]
We examined the relationship between age-0 and age-1 Largemouth Bass relative abundance in consecutive years in eight Arkansas lakes. Average age-0 relative abundance ranged from zero to 122 age-0 fish/seine haul. The data included a large number of seine hauls with no age-0 fish. Average age-1 relative abundance ranged from 1.9 to 77.6 age-1 fish/h. A linear relationship between age-0 and age-1 abundances was generally as good as, or better than other models. Most relationships were weak, and some were negative. The R2 values ranged from <0.01 to 0.48. Low age-0 relative abundance can trigger a request for hatchery fingerlings. An age-0 relative abundance below the lake-specific median age-0 relative abundance triggered a supplemental stocking more than 55% of the time. We found little evidence that supplemental stocking created greater age-1 relative abundances than would have been predicted by the age-0 relative abundance of wild fish alone. We found only one instance where stocking reduced the variability of age-1 relative abundance relative to unstocked years. Although the data we examined were repurposed to address the questions we asked, the results suggest that spring, shoreline seine data do not provide good predictions of age-1 relative abundance, either because the year class strength is not set or because seine data are inappropriate for use as an early predictor of year class strength.
Oral - Professional
FLOW-ECOLOGY RELATIONSHIPS IN THE OZARK HIGHLANDS
Dustin T. Lynch 1* and Daniel D. Magoulick2 1Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 2U.S. Geological Survey, Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 [email protected]
We examined flow-ecology relationships in fish communities in the Ozark Highlands over two years with contrasting environmental conditions, a drought year (2012) and a flood year (2013), using an IT multiple regression approach with a priori selected predictor variables incorporating hydrology, habitat, geomorphology, and water quality. Response variables included species richness, Simpson’s diversity, percent intolerant species, percent centrarchids, and total density. Additionally, we used canonical ordination to relate these same response variables to metrics of flow alteration using a small a priori selected set of flow alteration variables and via an exploratory forward selection procedure examining all flow alteration variables. We found that hydrology was an important influence on community structure, but often less important than other types of environmental variables, especially in a drought year. Exploratory canonical ordination showed strong flow alteration-ecology relationships, and most flow alteration metrics examined showed significant reductions relative to expected. Fish responded to alteration in duration, frequency, and magnitude-related flow variables. Flow alteration, along with habitat, geomorphology, and water quality, appears to have important influences on fish community structure in the Ozark Highlands.
Oral - student
25
EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVE TANDEM HOOP NET SAMPLE SIZE FOR CHANNEL CATFISH ICTALURUS PUNCTATUS POPULATIONS IN RESERVOIRS
Philip B. Malone* and John R. Jackson Arkansas Tech University, Department of Biological Sciences, 1701 North Boulder Ave., Russellville, AR 72801 [email protected]
Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus play an important role in Arkansas’s commercial and recreational fisheries. Recently, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission initiated sampling strategies to provide needed information to aid in management decisions for reservoir fisheries. The goal of my research is to develop and evaluate standard sampling protocols using tandem hoop nets to assess Channel Catfish populations in reservoirs. Specifically, my study will determine effective sample size for evaluating changes in relative abundance and explore relations between catch per effort and reservoir habitat characteristics. Sampling was conducted during the spring of 2014 in six reservoirs (Lake Nimrod, Lake Overcup, Lake Catherine, DeQueen Lake, Lake Erling, and Columbia Lake). Sixteen tandem hoop net sets were set each month (April, May, and June) in each reservoir. Mean catch per effort (fish/tandem hoop net set; CPUE) ranged from 1.9 (SD, 2.1) to 355.9 (SD, 137.2). Due to April’s low catch rates, only May and June CPUE was used to evaluate effective sample sizes. Preliminary simulations were conducted to detect 10 to 50% CPUE changes with α=0.05 and 0.10 with power at 0.95 and 0.80.
Oral - student
FORCASTING THE EFFECTS OF ANGLER HARVEST AND CLIMATE CHANGE ON SMALLMOUTHBASS ABUNDANCE IN THE BUFFALO RIVER, AR
Chris Middaugh1* and Dan Magoulick2 1Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 2U.S. Geological Survey, Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701 [email protected]
Climate change threatens aquatic systems across the United States. In Arkansas, climate change is expected to alter precipitation patterns and increase air temperatures over the course of the 21st century. Discharge and temperature are two of the most important variables structuring lotic ecosystems and deviations from historic patterns of these variables due to climate change will affect lotic fish populations. Smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu are ecologically important as top predators in stream ecosystems and are susceptible to detrimental effects of climate change. In addition, smallmouth bass provide a popular recreational fishery in many systems and are vulnerable to harvest mortality. We have created a model examining the relative effects of climate change and angler harvest on the smallmouth bass population in one of the most popular smallmouth bass fisheries in Arkansas, the Buffalo River. We parameterized the model for two time periods, present and future, in order to compare the relative effects of both climate change and angler harvest. Preliminary results indicate that both climate change and angler harvest can play a critical role in influencing smallmouth bass population size. Managers should take into account the potential effects of climate change on smallmouth bass when considering future regulation changes.
Oral - student
26
FACTORS AFFECTING FISH ASSEMBLAGES IN FLOODPLAIN LAKES OF THE OUACHITA RIVER VALLEY
Jason Olive1*, Andy Yung1, Julieann Jacobs2 1 Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 500 Ben Lane, Camden, AR 71730 2 University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR 71601 [email protected]
Floodplain river ecosystems are some of the most diverse and dynamic environments in Arkansas. These systems are also some of the most disturbed by anthropogenic activity. The Ouachita River floodplain is unique among Arkansas rivers in that agricultural activity is minimal; but oil and brine extraction and replacement of bottomland hardwoods with pine plantations have been significant disturbances over the last century. There are approximately 75 natural floodplain lakes in the Ouachita River valley between Arkadelphia and the Louisiana state line. Many of these have silted in and are too shallow to sustain a fish community or allow navigation. Forty-two of these lakes were identified as having the potential to provide a sustainable fishery; however, 16 of them are inaccessible with standard AGFC gear. During fall 2013 and 2014, we sampled fish communities in 22 of the 26 accessible floodplain lakes using boat electrofishing. In addition to fish community data, we measured morphometric characteristics and water quality for each lake. Relationships among species abundance, diversity indices, trophic guilds, and environmental characteristics were examined using a variety of univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. Relationships among lakes and watershed characteristics will be examined in the future using GIS.
Oral - professional
EVALUATION OF SAMPLING METHODS USED TO COLLECT CATFISH IN SOUTH ARKANSAS WATERS
Jason Olive Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 500 Ben Lane, Camden, AR 71730 [email protected]
The collection of accurate and precise data is of utmost importance when evaluating status and trends in fish populations. Prior to the late 1990’s, few efforts had been made nationwide to develop standard sampling protocols for catfish. However, as state fish and wildlife agencies began to recognize the substantial proportion of effort being expended by catfish anglers, many began to work toward developing standard data collection methods. In less than 20 years, two international symposia devoted specifically to catfish have been held and two American Fisheries Society technical committees have been formed to specifically address catfish management and research. In response to the proliferation of sampling method evaluations in the recent literature, a summary of all published information on catfish sampling was published in Fisheries magazine in 2013. One objective of this article was to identify gaps in our understanding of gear performance and bias. Researchers from Arkansas Tech University and fisheries biologists with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission initiated projects in 2014 to attempt to address some of these gaps. This presentation will include a summary of AGFC’s efforts to date and proposed future plans.
Oral - professional
27
ANGLER CATCH OF CHANNEL CATFISH STOCKED IN ARKANSAS LAKES AND STREAMS
Jeffrey W. Quinn* and Diana Andrews Arkansas Game and Fish Commission; 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72205 [email protected]
Stocking is the primary fisheries management tool used to enhance channel catfish Ictalurus puctatus fisheries throughout the United States, but the technique has not been thoroughly evaluated for large reservoirs (e.g., > 5,000 ha) and small rivers. Our first objective was to compare catch rates of catchable-sized (312-456 mm TL) catfish stocked in 16 waters from three classes: large U.S. Army Corps (COE) lakes (5,425–18,381 ha), moderate-size Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lakes (AGFC; 81–2,716 ha), and rivers. We addressed these objectives through the use of an angler-reward tag study, and we tagged and stocked 400-500 catfish per water with standard-reward tags (US$10–$100). An additional 10 fish per water were stocked with a US$100 high-reward tag to assess tag non-reporting. A total of 1,210 anglers reported they caught 1,964 of the 6,800 fish (29%) that were stocked with standard tags by the end of three years. Anglers reported catching 82 of 160 high-reward tagged fish (51%). The mean angler tag reporting rate (± 95% CI) among stockings was 0.61 ± 0.14. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lakes had higher adjusted cumulative 3-year catch rates (mean ± SD; 0.77 ± 0.28) than COE lakes (0.44 ± 0.17) or rivers (0.51 ± 0.20; F2,13 = 3.06; P = 0.08). The mean adjusted (i.e., to 400 fish stocked) number of anglers (±SD) returning a tag among stockings was 67 ± 28 anglers. Fewer anglers returned a tag at rivers (mean ± SD; 48 ± 15 anglers) than AGFC lakes (84 ± 28; P = 0.03), and we did not detect differences between AGFC and COE lakes (69 ± 32; P = 0.35). Most fish were captured by anglers using a single rod and reel (72%) during March to June, and during bimodal hourly peaks at 800 h and 1800 hours. The angler with the greatest catch on average caught 12 fish or slightly over one daily limit of 10 fish. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission lakes had high catch rates and these fisheries may benefit from periodic population assessments and angler satisfaction surveys to determine stocking needs.
Oral - professional
CHANGES IN LAND USE AND FISH ASSEMBLAGES IN TWO OZARK HIGHLAND STREAMS OVER FOUR DECADES
Heather Allaben Saco*, Ginny Adams and Reid Adams University of Central Arkansas, 201 Donaghey Avenue, Conway, Arkansas 72035 [email protected]
Long-term studies evaluating land use and fish assemblage structure are often lacking but necessary to further understanding of anthropogenic influence on local fish assemblages. Land use is known to influence aquatic ecosystems, and alterations impact the biota. Piney and Sylamore creeks are tributaries of the White River in Izard and Stone counties, Arkansas. During summer 2014, we sampled fishes at 10 sites in both Piney Creek and Sylamore Creek. Sites, dates, and sampling methodology were consistent with previous data collected during the 1970’s. Fish assemblage data collected during this study were compared to historical data using Morisita-Horn similarity indices. Assemblage similarity of the north and south branches of Sylamore Creek were analyzed separately and compared. North Sylamore historical and current assemblage similarity was more similar (0.80) compared to South Sylamore (0.67). Notable species present in historical data but absent from the 2014 collection include Cottus immaculatus and Etheostoma flabellare. Piney Creek fish assemblage similarity is being analyzed, and preliminary findings will be presented. Fish metrics (including species richness, percent tolerant species, and percent intolerant species) in relation to change in land use composition will be discussed.
Oral - student
28
INVESTINGATING GENETIC BASIS OF MIGRATORY TIMING USING CIRCADIAN CLOCK GENES IN SPRING CHINOOK SALMON (ONCORHYNCHUS TSHAWYTSCHA)
Samuel J. Shry*1, Melissa L. Evans2, Dave Jacobsen2, Nicholas M. Sard2, Kathleen O’Malley2 1Department of Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, 2801 S. University Ave., Little Rock, AR, 72204 2Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Coastal Oregon Marine Experiment Station, Hatfield Marine Science Center, Oregon State University, 2030 SE Marine Science Drive, Newport, Oregon 97365 [email protected]
In many salmonid fishes, timing of migration to the spawning grounds has been linked to variation at genes associated with circadian rhythm. Spring Chinook salmon vary return time to the spawning grounds ranging from May through October of each year. I evaluated variation at four genes, OtsClock1b, Cryptocrhrome2b.3, OmyFbxw11, and Ots515NWFSC, associated with circadian rhythm in two populations of spring Chinook salmon. First, having classified spring Chinook salmon in two rivers and two years into early, middle, and late return times, I analyzed allele frequencies at these four genes. From the pairwise comparisons, I discovered significant differences between years and populations, but return time groups were not significantly different. Second, I evaluated allele frequencies on a continuous scale using Julian date of return and mean allele length (MAL). ANOVA models were run to examine relationships between MAL at OtsClock1b and genotype at OmyFbxw11 and return time (Julian date). OmyFbxw11 genotype was a significant predictor of migration timing in these populations, with heterozygous individuals of genotype 176-178 returning later than individuals of other genotypes. This project further supports a role for genetic factors to the migration timing of salmon.
Poster - student
CHARACTERISTICS OF WATER QUALITY AND FISH COMMUNITY STRUCTURE IN MEDIUM SIZE MISSISSIPPI ALLUVIAL PLAIN FOREST AND AGRICULTURE STREAMS
Matthew L. Skoog1*, Christopher T. Laskodi 1, Yushun Chen2, and Michael A. Eggleton1 1University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 N. University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR, 71601 2 University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China [email protected]
Agriculture has greatly influenced water quality and fish communities in third- and fourth-order in streams of southeastern Arkansas. In this study, water quality and fish community structure were assessed seasonally (April, June, and October) at three sites each in four agricultural streams and four forested streams. Composite mean values for water quality parameters and fish community indices were generated seasonally for each stream. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to test whether water quality and fish communities varied between agricultural and forested streams. Preliminary results indicated significant (P≤0.05) season × stream type interaction for total fish abundance, Simpson dominance index, Shannon-Weiner diversity, and fish community richness index, meaning that the stream type differences varied seasonally. The season × stream type interaction was similarly significant for total ammonia nitrogen, hardness, alkalinity, turbidity, total suspended solids, pH, and conductivity. Additionally, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, salinity, chloride, and water temperature varied seasonally in both stream types, whereas nitrate, total phosphorus, and phosphate varied between stream types. Results will be useful to enhance understanding of agricultural impacts on water quality and biotic communities in these Mississippi Alluvial Plain streams, which have been largely ignored by management agencies due to difficulties in access.
Oral – student
29
WINTER PRODUCTION OF GOLDEN SHINERS NOTEMIGONUS CRYSOLEUCAS IN SPLIT AND TRADITIONAL EARTHEN PONDS
Matthew A. Smith* and Nathan Stone University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Aquaculture/Fisheries Center, 1200 N. University Dr., Box 4912, Pine Bluff, AR 71601 [email protected]
Golden shiners spawn in the spring, and millions of fish must be maintained for sale the following spring. Catfish producers are adopting split-ponds and baitfish farmers have expressed interest in these systems, but a concern is a potential reduction in survival of small fish when confined within split-pond culture units over the winter. A 139 d study was conducted from November 2013 through mid-March 2014. Golden shiner production in 12 0.04-ha earthen ponds (6 split (SPLIT) and 6 traditional ponds (TRAD)) was compared by stocking mixed-sized (“pond-run”) golden shiners at 646 kg ha-1or 1,292 kg ha-1 (approximately 370,500 or 741,000 fish ha-1, respectively). In the SPLIT treatments, fish were confined by a fine mesh barrier fence to 20% of the total pond area, and a slow-rotating 0.19 kW (5.4 RPM) gearmotor-driven paddlewheel circulated water through the culture unit. At harvest, there was a significant difference in yields between TRAD and SPLIT ponds. In the low stocking rate TRAD and SPLIT ponds, gross yield (mean ± SD) was 827 ± 19 and 773 ± 35 kg ha-1, respectively. At the high rate, TRAD and SPLIT gross yields averaged 1,546 ± 37 and 1,434 ± 54 kg ha-1, respectively.
Oral - student
BACTERIA CHARACTERIZATION OF BIG CREEK AND BUFFALO RIVER NEAR CARVER ACCESS
Faron D. Usrey* and Shawn Hodges National Park Service, Buffalo National River, 402 North Walnut, Suite 136, Harrison, Arkansas, 72601 [email protected]
Buffalo National River (BNR) was created in 1972, “…for the benefit and enjoyment of present and further generations…” Thousands of visitors come to park each year to enjoy canoeing, swimming, fishing, and other recreational activities. Economic benefit of BNR to the regional economy is considerable with over $45 million per year added to the region. In 2013, Arkansas’ largest swine confined animal feeding operation was permitted on Big Creek, a tributary to Buffalo River. An estimated 4.2 million gallons of untreated swine manure is being applied to approximately 402 acres, 43% of which is in the floodplain, only 5 miles above the park boundary. Monitoring began in early 2013 to characterize Escherichia coli concentrations in 3 sites; Big Creek and Buffalo River above and below the confluence. In October 2014, 2 other sites were added to address regional effects; Little Buffalo and Upper Buffalo Wilderness. Thus far, 372 samples have been collected. Thirty one samples were > 298 colonies per 100ml; 4 out of 5 sites. Five months exceeded the geometric mean, >126 colonies/100 ml; 3 out of 5 sites. In spring of 2014, Big Creek and Buffalo River (below confluence) exceeded recreation contact limits for 2 months.
Oral - professional
30
LAKE CONWAY SEDIMENTS SUGGEST DETERIORATING WATER QUALITY
Byron A .Winston* and Thad Scott Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville [email protected]
We investigated the spatial and temporal differences in sedimentation rate, historical changes in nutrient concentration and determined if these changes were driven by population growth within the Lake Conway watershed. Results showed that sedimentation rate (SR), organic matter (OM) and phosphorus (P) concentration all increased in the lake sediment. Stone Dam Creek (SDC) had the greatest SR (900 mg/cm3/yr) and lowest OM concentration at the sediment surface (10%). Middle Lake (ML) had the highest surface P concentration of 3393 mg/kg followed by SDC at 2008 mg/kg and Grassy Lake (GL) at 1037 mg/kg. Sedimentation rate was positively correlated to human population increase (SDC r = 0.69, ML r = 0.96 and GL r = 0.75). With the exception of SDC, sediment P was positively correlated with human population increase (SDC r = -0.71, ML r = 0.98 and GL r = 0.75). Overall, the study suggest that changes in water quality may be related to human population increase and should be considered in the water quality management plan for Lake Conway.
Oral - professional
31
NOTES
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