Desert Fish Stable Isotope Research

Research Task: 832798W.4.0
Task Manager: Jeanette Carpenter

The Colorado River Basin is home to a variety of rare and endangered fishes, frogs, and invertebrates. Most recovery studies have focused resources toward physical habitat restoration and fish stocking. However, many scientists argue that predation by introduced species may be the primary factor affecting recovery in the Basin. Crayfish are not native to the Basin, yet they are now established throughout the region. This study will evaluate crayfish abundance and impacts in Sabino and Boneyard Creeks in Arizona. The trophic status of crayfish will be evaluated using both stable isotope analysis and gut content analysis.

 For more information contact Jeanette Carpenter

Related Products

Publications

• Competition for food between an introduced crayfish and two fishes endemic to the Colorado River basin