An eDNA-Validated Habitat Suitability Model for Torrent Salamanders

Project ID: G19AC00112

Federal Agency: U.S. Geological Survey

Partner Institution: Oregon State University

Fiscal Year: 2019

Initial Funding: $27,883

Total Funding: $27,883

Abstract: The goal of this research is to use a combination of laboratory experiments and hatchery trials to determine how the use of enhanced feeding regimens (i.e., chemically enhanced through top-coating and content-enhanced through addition of live feed) affects survival of first-feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon.

The objectives are as follows: 1) identify a diet that improves parity of survival and condition (i.e., weight) of first feeding larval Pallid Sturgeon, regardless of genetic lot; 2) determine length of time required to feed diet identified in Objective 1 that enhances survival, condition, and weaning success, regardless of genetic lot; 3) determine if diet and feeding duration identified in Objectives 1 and 2 can be applied successfully at Pallid Sturgeon propagation facilities; and 4) develop a feeding regimen for implementation at Upper Basin conservation propagation hatcheries.