Honors Program Theses

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Honors Program Thesis (UNI Access Only)

First Advisor

Peter Berendzen

Keywords

Longnose dace--Habitat--Iowa; Longnose dace--Population viability analysis--Iowa;

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to collect and analyze ecological and abundance data from streams in northeast Iowa containing longnose dace to determine the habitat preferences of this species. Measurements of the physical habitat include water quality, instream habitat, and out-of-stream habitat, in addition to longnose dace abundance. Recorded variables were evaluated for correlations, trends, and potential preferences of the longnose dace. These characteristics can then be used to identify critial habitats that are necessary for preservation and conservation of the longnose dace. By comparing ecological data among streams where longnose dace are located, the environmental and landscape characteristics that influence distribution of the species can be determined. The IWAP (IWAP, 2013) identified loss of riparian habitat, channelization, and stream fragmentation as consequences of habitat modifications; such degradation could be affecting the resident species. The results of this study will be useful in guiding the Iowa Department of Natural Resources toward successful conservation strategies for the preservation of non-game, native fish in northeast Iowa river drainages.

Year of Submission

2013

Department

Department of Biology

University Honors Designation

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the designation University Honors

Date Original

2013

Object Description

1 PDF file (31 pages)

Language

EN

File Format

application/pdf

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