A novel detection technique for fishes at risk

Session: 09. - Modeling, Detecting, and Managing Rarity

Rowshyra Castaneda, University of Toronto Scarborough, [email protected]
Nicholas Mandrak, Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, [email protected]

Abstract

The ability to accurately assess species abundances, distributions, and diversity is crucial for successful conservation management. However, detection of rare species presents difficulties for conservation strategies, especially when monitoring changes in populations. In many cases, sampling for fishes at risk, such as Redside Dace, may be restricted due to potential stress and mortality from handling in the field. The inability to sample Redside Dace reduces our ability to adequately monitor populations as required by recovery strategies and action plans. Redside Dace has been suffering an extreme population decline in response to habitat degradation with increasing urbanization; therefore, determining its distribution and abundance is of high priority. To do so, developing a new detection method that does not require physical handling of Redside Dace is required. Underwater visual analysis (UWVA), using cameras, is a passive method gaining popularity in freshwater systems. Historical Redside Dace sites across its distribution in Ontario, currently being affected by urbanization, were sampled in summer 2015, 2016, and 2017. We compared the detection probabilities of UWVA, electrofishing, and seining, to evaluate the efficiencies of the different gear types. The results of this analysis will be used to inform best sampling methods for this rare species.

1. Keyword
cameras

2. Keyword
conservation

3. Keyword
fish

4. Additional Keyword
occupancy models