ABSTRACTS OF
THE 33RD ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LOUISIANA
CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN FISHERIES
SOCIETY
“WATER USE IN LOUISIANA”
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
MAY 17 – MAY 18, 2012
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
TIM RUTH, PRESIDENT
MELISSA KAINTZ, PRESIDENT-ELECT
QUENTON FONTENOT, PAST PRESIDENT
BRAC SALYERS, SECRETARY-TREASURER
DAVID HICKMAN, WEBMASTER
MATTI LYNN DANTIN, NEWSLETTER EDITOR
ANGELA CAPELLO, CHAIR OF EXTENSION, OUTREACH AND EDUCATION
COMMITTEE
JOHN SUPAN, CHAIR OF STUDENT AWARDS
BRIAN ALFORD, EDITOR, 2012 ABSTRACTS BOOK
SOUTHERN DIVISION OF THE AMERICAN FISHERIES SOCIETY
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
BY STUDENT CLUBS
Raffle and Auction Contributors
American Fisheries Society, Aquatic Ecosystems Inc., Louisiana Sea Grant (Dr. Julie
Anderson), USGS (Dr. Jill Jenkins), Earthly Concerns (Baton Rouge), LSU Baseball
(Paul Mainieri), Fresh Market (Baton Rouge), Carco Trophies and Awards, World
Aquaculture Society, Leslie Vincent, New York Bagel Company, and others who
donated after press
IN MEMORIAM
Larry Hartzog 1946-2012
Larry Hartzog passed away on January 24, 2012. We would like to acknowledge Larry’s
service as a steward of the environment and the many contributions he made to the field of
fisheries. Larry was employed with the United States Army Corps of Engineers for many
years before moving to the Minerals Management Service in 2006. During his time at the
New Orleans District of the USACOE he was an advocate for fishery resources and was
known for his active role in fishery conservation associated with the Lake Pontchartrain and
Vicinity Hurrican Project and the water management projects in the Atchafalaya Basin. Not
only was Larry a passionate fisheries scientist, he was also a beloved husband, father, and
friend. He was also an ardent jazz, food, and beer enthusiast who enjoyed sharing his
knowledge of music and beer over one of his homebrews he crafted in his backyard brew
house. We will miss him.
1
Louisiana Chapter of the American Fisheries Society
Thursday, 17 May 2012 (Day 1)
Presenting author is denoted by an asterisk (*). Student presenters are underlined. Abstract page
is listed in parentheses
8:00 AM
Registration
8:20 AM
Welcome and Opening Remarks
8:30 AM
Keynote Presentation: Water-- Louisiana’s Defining Resource. Mark
Davis*, Tulane Institute for Water Resources Law and Policy (Page 9)
9:00 AM
Keynote Presentation: Instream Flow in Southern States. Dennis
Riecke*, Instream Flow Council, Mississippi Department of Wildlife,
Fisheries, and Parks (Page 10)
9:30 AM
Surface water management in Louisiana using cooperative
agreements for withdrawal of running water of the state: ACT 955 of
2010. Thomas Van Biersel*, Louisiana Department of Natural Resources
(Page 16)
9:45 AM
Assessing Louisiana’s freshwater resources: a statewide analysis of
landscape condition, system function, and biological health.
Bryan P. Piazza*, Thomas B. Kennedy, David Harlan, James F. Bergan, C.
Stephen Haase, and Micah G. Bennett (Page 41)
10:00 AM
Break 1: Fifteen minutes
10:15 AM
Response of imperiled Okaloosa Darters to restoration of stream
habitat. David B. Reeves*, Frank Jordan, Howard L. Jelks, and William
Tate (Page 43)
10:30 AM
Assessing optimal salinity levels for nekton assemblages in the lower
Barataria estuary. J. Brian Alford* (Page 11)
10:45 AM
Southeastern blue suckers (Cycleptus meridionalis) forgotten, but not
lost yet: Low catches and limited range of targeted habitats suggest
continued concerns. Devon C. Oliver*, William E. Kelso, and Michael D.
Kaller (Page 37)
2
Day 1 Continued.
11:00 AM
Patterns of richness and endemism of fishes of the Western Gulf Slope
with an emphasis on the biogeographical role of the eastern drainages.
Robert J. Maxwell* and Timothy H. Bonner (Page 33)
11:15 AM
Microgeographic population structure in gulf shrimp along the
Louisiana coastline. Mollie F. Cashner* and Kyle R. Piller (Page 19)
11:30 AM
Lunch on your own: One hour and thirty minutes
1:00 PM
The naked truth: the effects of a low head dam on the population
genetic structure of the naked sand darter (Ammocrypta beanii) in the
Pearl River, Louisiana. David T. Camak* and Kyle R. Piller (Page18)
1:15 PM
Reassessment of population trends and conservation status of
Louisiana’s rare freshwater fishes using data from natural history
collections. Justin G. Mann* and Henry L. Bart Jr. (Page 32)
1:30 PM
Commercial-scale sperm cryopreservation for blue catfish. E Hu* and
Terrence Tiersch (Page 24)
1:45 PM
Ovarian cycle and fisheries management: the channel catfish story.
Noel D. Novelo* and Terrence R. Tiersch (Page 35)
2:00 PM
Application of biotechnology in addressing Asian carp management
initiatives. Jill A. Jenkins (Page 25)
2:15 PM
Physiological reproductive seasonality of spotted gar, Lepisosteus
oculatus, in the upper Barataria Estuary, Louisiana. Emily E.
Rombach*, Allyse M. Ferrara, and Quenton C. Fontenot (Page 44)
2:30 PM
Break 2: Fifteen minutes
2:45 PM
The effects of oyster harvest on resident oyster reef communities and
reef structure in coastal Louisiana. Steve Beck*, and Megan La Peyre
(Page 15)
3:00 PM
An industry in decline: finding the optimal oyster stock and ideal
temperature and salinity conditions for the commercial production of
Louisiana oysters (Crassostrea virginica). Justin M. Leonhardt*, John E.
Supan, and Jerome LaPeyre (Page 30)
3
Day 1 Continued.
3:15 PM
Preliminary comparison of two coastal marsh populations of alligator
gar (Atractosteus spatula) in Louisiana. Justin R. Duke*, Allyse M.
Ferrara, Quenton C. Fontenot, Gary J. LaFleur, Jr., and Brac Salyers
(Page 22)
3:30 PM
Fish assemblage diversity at revetted banks in the Pearl River and the
response of these assemblages to 2011 Temple Inland Fish Kill. Jose A.
Vazquez*, Michael D. Kaller, and William E. Kelso (Page 46)
3:45 PM
Trace element anomalies in otolith microchemistry of red snapper
(Lujantus campechanus): before and after the Deepwater Horizon oil
spill. Marshall J. Kormanec*, James Cowan Jr., and Stephen Potts (Page
27)
4:00 PM
Impacts of artificial reef addition on the nekton community of a
Louisiana estuary: A before-after-control-impact analysis. Kari E.
Klotzbach*, Steven B., Garner, Joris L. van der Ham, James H. Cowan,
Jr., and Kevin M. Boswell (Page 26)
4:15 PM
Estimating natural mortality rates for juvenile white shrimp
(Litopenaeus setiferus) along an estuarine salinity gradient. Marvin
Mace III* and Lawrence Rozas (Page 31)
4:30-5:30PM
Poster Session
Catching crabs with a cost-efficient concoction. Angelle N. Anderson*
and Julie A. Anderson (Page 12)
Derelict crab trap rodeos. Julie A. Anderson (Page 9)
Physiological biomarkers of hypoxic stress in red swamp crayfish
Procambarus clarkii from field and laboratory experiments.
Christopher P. Bonvillain*, D. Allen Rutherford, William E. Kelso, and
Christopher C. Green (Page 17)
Effects of potassium ion concentration on growth, survival, and ion
regulation in Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis). Calvin Fisher*,
Christopher Green, and Charlotte Bodinier (Page 23)
4
Day 1 Continued.
The effect of oil dispersants and salinity on the biodegradation of
south Louisiana crude oil and impacts on gulf killifish Fundulus
grandis. Adam Kuhl* and Christopher C. Green (Page 28)
Distribution patterns of fish communities associated with northwest
Gulf of Mexico hard-bottom habitat. Todd A Langland* and James H.
Cowan (Page 29)
Production of river bathymetry maps using a low cost single beam
sonar unit. Devon C. Oliver*, William E. Kelso and Michael D. Kaller
(Page 36)
Mississippi River freshwater diversions: highlights of biomonitoring
results from the Davis Pond and Caernarvon operations. Heather M.
Olivier*, Beth B. Bourgeois, Paul J. Conzelmann, Rassa Draugelis-Dale,
and Jill A. Jenkins (Page 38)
Physiological effects of terrestrial stranding on Gulf killifish
(Fundulus grandis). Paige E. O’Malley*, Charles A. Brown,
Joshua T. Patterson, and Christopher C. Green (Page 39)
Effects of differential lipids levels in broodfish diets for Gulf killifish
(Fundulus grandis) spawning in indoor recirculation systems. Joshua
T. Patterson* and Christopher C. Green (Page 40)
Habitat preference of fishes in nearshore central Louisiana:
Integrating bioenergetics, spatial, and individual based models.
Stephen E. Potts (Page 42)
Diet of red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) on natural hard-bottom
banks in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Brittany D. Schwartzkopf*
and James H. Cowan Jr. (Page 47)
6:00-9:00PM
Social, student raffle and auction – Spanish Moon (1109 Highland Road)
5
Louisiana Chapter of the American Fisheries Society
Friday, 18 May 2012 (Day 2)
Presenting author is denoted by an asterisk (*). Student presenters are underlined. Abstract page
is listed in parentheses
8:00 AM
Registration
8:45 AM
Value of monitoring surveys for assessing impacts of environmental
disasters: case study of estimated fish mortality caused by August
2011 Pearl River fish kill. Henry L. Bart Jr. (Page 14)
9:00 AM
A marine fish out of seawater and other interesting occurrences of
fishes in Louisiana’s inland waters. Michael H. Doosey* and Henry L.
Bart Jr. (Page 21)
9:15 AM
The relationship of lead net soak time to sample catch rate. R. Lynn
Mathews and Richard D. Moses* (Page 34)
9:30 AM
Economic feasibility of production scenarios for cocahoe minnows in
Louisiana. Jill Christoferson*, Julie A. Anderson, Rex Caffey, and
Christopher C. Green (Page 20)
9:45 AM
Habitat influences on feeding ecology of red snapper (Lutjanus
campechanus): a comparison between shelf edge bank reefs and
artificial reefs in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Kirsten A. Simonsen*,
Kevin M. Boswell, and James H. Cowan, Jr. (Page 45)
10:00 AM
Break 1: Fifteen minutes
10:15 AM
Business Meeting, Awards Presentations, and Officer Elections
6
KEYNOTE SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES
Mark S. Davis
Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy
Tulane University Law School
New Orleans, Louisiana
Biography
Mark Davis is a Senior Research Fellow at Tulane University Law School and Director of the
Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy at the Law School. The mission of the Institute is
to foster an appreciation of the importance of water resources and the vital roles that law and
policy play in their management and stewardship.
Prior to coming to the Law School Mr. Davis served for fourteen years as Executive Director of
the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, a broad based organization committed to the
stewardship of Louisiana's coast.
He is a member of the bar in Indiana, the District of Columbia, Illinois and Louisiana.
Mr. Davis has taught as an adjunct faculty member at the Indiana University School of Business
(Indianapolis), IIT Chicago-Kent School of Law, and Loyola Law School (New Orleans). He is
currently an adjunct instructor at the Tulane University Law School.
Mr. Davis has a BS and JD from Indiana University and an MLT from Georgetown University.
Mr. Davis sits on a number of boards and commissions including:
America’s Wetland Foundation Board of Directors
Gulf Restoration Network Advisory Board
Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Advisory Board
Governor's Advisory Commission on Coastal Restoration and Conservation,
Legal and Land Rights Committee
o LSU Sea Grant Legal Program Advisory Board
o Louisiana State University School of the Coast and Environment Advisory
Committee
o
o
o
o
Mr. Davis lives in New Orleans
7
Dennis Riecke
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
Jackson, MS
Biography
Educational Background
Dennis received a BS degree in Fishery Biology and Aquatic Science from the University of
Southwestern Louisiana in 1982 and a MS degree in Fisheries Management from Mississippi
State University in 1985.
Professional Background
Dennis has worked for the Kansas Fish and Game Commission as a District Fisheries Biologist,
(January 1985- April 1987), in Louisiana as an Aquaculture Research Associate (May 1987November 1988) and for the past 23 years as a fisheries biologist and a fisheries coordinator for
the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP). His current duties
include serving as Environmental Coordinator, representing MDWFP on the Miss. Dept. of
Environmental Quality permit board; providing fisheries technical information on farm pond and
aquatic plant management; helping communities enroll existing water bodies in an urban
fisheries program; and on issues concerning commercial fishing, oxbow lake/public water
access, aquatic invasive species, instream flow and drafting or revising state laws and fisheries
regulations.
Professional Involvement
Dennis joined the AFS as a student in 1979 and became a Certified Fisheries Professional in
1996 and was recertified in 2002 and 2007. He has served on the Membership Concerns (19871991) and Continuing Education (1992-1995) committees and has served on the SDAFS
Reservoir, Small Impoundments and Warmwater Streams Committees. He has been a member
of the Fisheries History, Fisheries Management, Fisheries Administrator, International Fisheries
and Introduced Fishes Sections. He served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Mississippi Chapter
(1997-1999) and the Warmwater Streams Committee (2000-2005). He has served as Chairman
of the SDAFS Resolutions Committee since 2003 and on the AFS Parent Society Resolutions
Committee. In 2009, he was appointed Chairman of the AFS Parent Society Resolutions
Committee. He authored the SDAFS resolution on professional safety, which was adopted by
the SDAFS and by the AFS Parent Society in 2005. He authored the SDAFS resolution on
instream flow, which was adopted in 2007 by SDAFS and by the AFS Parent Society in 2008.
He authored the SDAFS Resolution on the federal funding of aquatic nuisance species which
was adopted in 2012. He was the author of the Defensive and Safe Driving article and coauthor
of the Chemical Application and Hazardous Waste Safety Use article in the AFS Safety
Handbook, published online in December 2008. He was fundraising cochairman for the 2012
SDAFS Midyear Meeting in Biloxi, MS. He has served as Secretary of the Instream Flow
Council since October 2008. He has served as a fisheries manuscript reviewer for SEAFWA and
the North American Journal of Fisheries Management. He coauthored the third (1997) and
fourth (2010) editions of Managing Mississippi Ponds and Small Lakes: A Landowner’s Guide.
He has authored over 30 poplar articles about fisheries for hunting and fishing magazines and
newspapers and has had 8 photographs published in books and brochures. He was designated a
Certified Public Manager in 2011.
8
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Water-- Louisiana’s Defining Resource
Mark Davis
Senior Research Fellow and Director, Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy, New
Orleans, LA 70118. msdavis@tulane.edu
Louisiana has a long and complex relationship with water. Culturally and economically, water
has shaped Louisiana in powerful and obvious ways. Legally, the relationship has been more
obscure, defined more by specific uses and periodic crises that command intense but brief
attention, than by a systematic approach to management. Louisiana is hardly unique in this
regard; indeed this has been the general approach that “wet” eastern and southern states have
taken to water management and law. As a result, water law as a field of practice and study has
received relatively little attention.
The state is facing a future in which water, even in Louisiana, is a scarce resource that demands a
well thought out and integrated approach to its stewardship. Indeed, that time has arrived. The
need to purposefully balance navigation, flood control, environmental, agricultural, industrial
and drinking water supplies is already pressing and becoming more so. If things were not
complicated enough, regional and interstate water needs are also growing as are energy driven
water uses.
Louisiana has begun to respond to these new challenges. In 2001, the Legislature passed Act
446 that, together with later amendments, created a framework for assessing the health of the
state’s ground water resources and regulating their use. In 2010 the Legislature enacted two
bills, Act 955[1] and HCR 1[2], that have already affected a major change in Louisiana surface
water use and regulation and which will likely lead to a revolution in Louisiana water law in the
years to come.
[1]
[2]
Act 955 of the 2010 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature
House Concurrent Resolution 1, 2010 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature
9
Instream Flow in Southern States
Dennis Riecke*
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Jackson, MS 39211.
DennisR@mdwfp.state.ms.us
My presentation will cover the uniqueness and biodiversity of aquatic fauna in the Southern US
to stress the importance of instream flow for these resources. Factors related to increasing water
demand will be covered along with ecosystem services and functions that flows provide.
Documentation will be presented which recognizes that human induced flow alteration is the
primary threat to the ecological integrity of streams. The proper and improper use of 7Q10 as an
instream flow method will be presented. My presentation will show the inadequacy of using
7Q10 as an instream flow method and how doing so results in severe impacts to aquatic
resources. Instream flow criteria being used by southern states will be discussed.
10
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Assessing optimal salinity levels for nekton assemblages in the lower Barataria estuary
J. Brian Alford
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Fisheries Management Section, 2000 Quail Dr.,
Baton Rouge, LA, 70808. balford@wlf.la.gov
Freshwater diversions of the Mississippi River are part of the restoration strategy employed by
the state of Louisiana and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to offset saltwater
intrusion and coastal erosion. In the Barataria Basin, a new diversion structure has been
proposed at Myrtle Grove. It is hypothesized that environmental changes brought about by
freshwater will alter the amount of suitable habitat for estuarine fish and shellfish (i.e., nekton),
for example, by changing salinity and water temperature regimes, and/or physical habitat. I used
multivariate, direct gradient analysis and generalized additive models (GAM) to evaluate the
potential impact of the proposed Myrtle Grove diversion on nekton community structure in the
lower Barataria estuary. I used species catch and associated physicochemical data collected by
the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries as part of their fishery-independent
monitoring program. Fish and physicochemical data were collected with otter trawls, seines and
gill nets were at 9-12 fixed stations on monthly-bimonthly occasions during April-July 19912011. I used canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) to determine the impact of salinity on
nekton community structure, and GAMs (assuming a Poisson error distribution) to predict the
salinity levels that will optimize species abundances in the lower Barataria estuary. The CCA
axis 1 scores represented a gradient of community structure constrained by salinity, and were
used as the predictor variable in the GAMs. I also used GAMs to predict actual salinity levels
that would optimize individual species abundances. There tended to be a greater number of
predators and benthic invertivores that showed a positive relationship with salinity (CCA, Tvalue biplots, P≤0.05), compared to those that showed a negative relationship, indicating a slight
trophic shift in the community towards omnivores and planktivores as salinity decreases.
Optimal salinity ranges for some economically important fishery species were ≥11 ppt for adult
Spotted seatrout (gill net), 6 and 11 ppt for Brown shrimp (seine and trawl, respectively), 2-6
ppt for juvenile Gulf menhaden (seine and trawl), ≥18 ppt for adult Gulf menhaden (gill net), 26 ppt for White shrimp and Atlantic croaker (trawl), <1-6 for Red drum and Black drum (gill
net), and ≥32 ppt for juvenile Striped mullet and White mullet (seine). Blue crab optimal salinity
was <1 ppt from seine and trawl gear, but ≥32 ppt for the gill net gear, perhaps reflecting
migratory differences between sexes. Atlantic bumper, Southern kingfish and Florida pompano
were optimal at ≥32 ppt for all gear types. Shannon-Wiener diversity indices and richness tended
to be optimized at moderate salinities (5-20 ppt), with the exception of richness from seine and
gill net samples (35 ppt), likely as a result from rare, transient marine species entering the
estuary. Given salinity regime predictions from USACE hydrological and hydrodynamic
models, structural changes in the nekton community can be projected for the lower Barataria
estuary.
11
Catching crabs with a cost-efficient concoction
Angelle N. Anderson* and Julie A. Anderson
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and Louisiana Sea Grant College Program,
Baton Rouge, LA, 70803
The blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) is a highly valued commercially and recreationally important
species in Louisiana coastal waters. In 2010, over 90 thousand metric tons of blue crab were
landed in the United States. Louisiana landings are valued at over $30 million and account for
over 80% of Gulf of Mexico hard crab landings. The blue crab fishery in the northern Gulf of
Mexico relies heavily on East Coast caught Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) as bait. Of
the 229,045 metric tons of B. tyrannus landed in 2010, 20% of landings were used for bait.
Ecological concern is growing over the depletion of the Chesapeake Bay Atlantic menhaden
stocks as B. tyrannus landings have decreased 36.5%. Decreased landings have caused the price
per pound for industrial and bait uses of B. tyrannus to increase over the last 20 years while
shipping cost have also increased. Additionally, price for crab has remained about the same,
demonstrating a need for new alternative bait. Large amounts of waste are produced from the
processing of commercial fisheries such as oyster, blue crab, shrimp, and finfish in Louisiana.
Our objective is to utilize this waste in the creation of a cost-effective bait to reduce fishing
pressure on B. tyrannus and add value to current waste products from the Louisiana seafood
industry. The bait matrix has been used in the horseshoe crab bait industry in Delaware;
preliminary experiments have begun with Louisiana seafood processing waste. Preliminary
experiments have tested the feasibility of oyster and crab waste as a chemical attractant. Both
waste products caused an active foraging response in blue crabs, an important quality for a
chemical attractant in artificial bait. All experiments were conducted using bait created with
either crab waste, oyster waste, or a control which did not contain an attractant. Longevity and
preservation of the baits was tested at room temperature (23 ⁰C) and refrigerated (5 ⁰C) for 7
days. None of the baits displayed excessive spoilage. Additionally baits lasted in 33 ppt artificial
saltwater for 7 days. Current results indicate that cost-effective bait is feasible which would
benefit B. tyrannus stocks, blue crab fishermen, and seafood producers.
12
Derelict crab trap rodeos
Julie A. Anderson
Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and Louisiana Sea Grant College Program,
Baton Rouge, LA 70803. janderson@agcenter.lsu.edu
A highly valued commercial fishery in Louisiana, over twenty thousand metric tons of blue crab
(Callinectes sapidus) was landed in 2009. Since their introduction in the mid-1950s, wire crab
traps have dramatically influenced the Gulf of Mexico blue crab fishery by increasing both catch
and marine debris. Derelict gear such as blue crab traps can cause a number of problems. The
most significant is that they continue to catch and kill a variety of species, in a process called
ghost fishing. In 2012, we partnered with Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to
turn the derelict crab trap cleanups into rodeo festival events. Three rodeos were held between
February 25 and March 17, 2012 near Delacroix and Chauvin, Louisiana. Partnering with many
groups across the state, over 310 people and 66 boats worked to collect 2,708 blue crab traps as
well as several gill nets and long-lines from the Louisiana coast. Additionally, during derelict
crab trap rodeos, volunteers were trained to collect ghost fishing data to determine the extent of
the problem in Louisiana. In addition to data collected on the water, digital images were taken to
later determine how long traps persist actively ghost fishing and to explore ways to reduce ghost
fishing in the future. The extent of ghost fishing, types of catch, types of traps, and condition of
the traps varied greatly between the two sites. The project will continue with education and
outreach events to prevent derelict gear, a reporting site for lost traps, and three new rodeo events
in 2013.
Figure 1. Logo from the Derelict Crab Trap Rodeos
13
Value of monitoring surveys for assessing impacts of environmental disasters: case study of
estimated fish mortality caused by August 2011 Pearl River fish kill
Henry L. Bart Jr.
Tulane University Museum of Natural History, Belle Chasse, LA. hank@museum.tulane.edu
Based on an agreement reached between Temple Inland Paper Mill and the Louisiana
Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the August 2011 spill of mill effluent into the Pearl River
below Bogalusa killed an estimated 160,000 fish and more than 430,000 freshwater mussels.
Estimating fish mortality from floating masses of rotting fish carcasses is difficult work, and
biased toward large and easily identified specimens. In this talk, I provide an estimate of
mortality caused by the spill using data of another sort: fish samples from a bioenvironmental
monitoring survey archived in the Tulane University Museum of Natural History. Royal D.
Suttkus and Gerald E. Gunning surveyed fishes in the lower Pearl River quarterly from 1963
until 1990 for Gaylord Container Corporation. Suttkus continued to survey the river with his
son, Jayson, until Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. Using data only for summer samples taken
during the last six years of this survey (2000-2005), I estimated mortality to both numbers of
individuals and number of species of mostly small shoreline fishes. The total length of river
affected by the spill (both banks of the main channel and all distributaries) was determined by
GIS to be 235 km. I computed 6-year averages of number of specimens present per survey year
and distance of stream sampled. Survey estimates were then extrapolated to the entire reach of
affected river. Estimates of the number of fish specimens killed by the spill range from ~1.4
million to 14 million, depending on the measure of seining efficiency used. I used the total
number of species collected over the entire 6-year period as the estimate of the number fish
species affected by the spill, multiplying each species proportional representation in the total
catch over six years by six estimates of fish mortality to estimate the number of specimens of
each species likely killed by the spill. The numbers ranged from 184 specimens for rare species
such as the Alabama shad, to over 4 million specimens for common species such as the blacktail
shiner. The results should be interpreted with caution because the data used predate the spill by
as much as 12 years. However, the study demonstrates the importance of biotic monitoring, and
maintaining archives of monitoring data, for estimating injury to biotic resources resulting from
environmental disasters.
14
The effects of oyster harvest on resident oyster reef communities and reef structure in
coastal Louisiana
Steve Beck*,1 and Megan La Peyre 2
1
School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton
Rouge, LA. sbeck2@tigers.lsu.edu; 2 U.S. Geological Survey, Louisiana Fish and Wildlife
Cooperative Research Unit, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA
Harvest of the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) is a primary contributor to oyster reef
habitat disturbance in the northern Gulf of Mexico. The impacts of oyster dredging on reef
substrate and resident fauna have not been thoroughly examined on the extensive sub-tidal oyster
reefs of Louisiana. Several reef structure and resident community metrics were compared on
unharvested and harvested reefs during the spring, summer, and fall of 2010. Unharvested reefs
had higher amounts of oyster clusters, solid reef substrate, and more large oysters, while
harvested reefs had higher amounts of loose shell, mixed shell/mud substrate, and elevated
chlorophyll-a levels. Overall, faunal densities did not differ with harvest status and dominant
species were similar, although greater invertebrate diversity was found on harvested reefs.
Several resident species were found to primarily associate with live oysters [freckled blenny
(Hypsoblennius ionthas) and skilletfish (Gobiesox strumosus)] and chlorophyll-a levels [Harris
mud crab (Rhithropanopeus harrisii) and snapping shrimp (Alpheus sp.)], indicating the
importance of live oysters in determining reef microhabitat preferences by regulating types of
available food sources. Condition (weight:length ratio) of naked gobies (Gobiosoma bosc) was
greater on unharvested reefs, while other common fish species showed no difference. Large
interstitial spaces associated with oyster clusters appear to enable several fish species to reach
larger sizes at unharvested reefs and promote retention of age = 0 G. bosc. Stable isotope values
(δ13C and δ15N) of dominant species and basal food sources were used to compare food web
characteristics between sites. Non-pelagic source contributions and trophic positions of
dominant species were elevated at harvested sites. Trophic order did not differ suggesting that
no major shifts in feeding behavior occur at harvested reefs with the exception of zooplankton
(trophic position increased substantially at harvested sites). While not changing total refuge
capacity, oyster harvest appears to decrease the number of large oysters and also fragment solid
reef area, resulting in elevated phytoplankton abundance, decreased benthopelagic coupling, and
increased habitat heterogeneity. A larger forage base in the water column and mixed shell/mud
substrate could account for increased invertebrate diversity and trophic position elevations on
harvested oyster reefs.
15
Surface water management in Louisiana using cooperative agreements for withdrawal of
running water of the state: ACT 955 of 2010
Thomas P. Van Biersel* and O.C. Smith
Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Baton Rouge, LA. thomas.vanbiersel@la.gov
On October 16, 2008, the Commissioner of Conservation issued a Ground Water Use Advisory
recommending the “wise water use planning in the Haynesville Shale,” and encouraging the use
of surface water as an alternative to groundwater for hydraulic fracture stimulation (HFS).
Known water usage associated with hydraulic fracture stimulations of the Haynesville Shale
exceeded 10 billion gallons as of March, 2012 (Fig.1). The majority of this water (~80%)
originated from streams, ponds, lakes and bayous. On July 2nd, 2010, Act 955 (House Bill No.
1486) of the 2010 regular session of the Louisiana Legislature became effective. This act allows
the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to enter into a Cooperative
Endeavor Agreement (CEA) with anyone seeking to withdraw the running surface water of the
state. These agreements provide a mechanism for entities that are not riparian land owners (such
as energy companies exploring the Haynesville Shale) to access surface water resources
providing an alternative to other water resources, such as groundwater. The Applications
pursuant to the Act require applicants to provide a detailed Plan of Water Use, showing that the
proposed water withdrawal is protective of other users (human consumption, agriculture,
commercial and industry), as well as stream flow, water quality, navigation, aquatic life,
vegetation and wildlife. In addition, an applicant may choose to provide either an economic
impact report showing social and economic benefits to the State of Louisiana, or to reimburse the
state for the water withdrawn. The Plans of Water Use submitted are concurrently reviewed by
the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and
Fisheries, the DNR’s Office of Conservation, the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority of
Louisiana, and the DNR’s Statewide Surface Water Initiative’s hydrologist. Cooperative
Endeavor Agreements, once approved by the Secretary of the DNR, may be suspended or
terminated to protect the water resources and to maintain sustainability, and environmental and
ecological balance. As of March 2012 the DNR had prepared 41 CEAs and executed 34 CEAs.
Figure 1: Volume water used for the Haynesville Shale
16
Physiological biomarkers of hypoxic stress in red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii from
field and laboratory experiments
Christopher P. Bonvillain*,1, D. Allen Rutherford1, William E. Kelso1, and Christopher C. Green2
1
School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton
Rouge, LA. 2Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Aquaculture Research Station,
2410 Ben Hur Road, Baton Rouge, LA. cbonvi3@tigers.lsu.edu
Crayfish harvested from the Atchafalaya River Basin (ARB) represent the majority of Louisiana
wild crayfish landings, with crayfish frequently harvested from waters that experience episodic
or chronic hypoxia (dissolved oxygen [DO] ≤ 2 mg/L). Physiological stress caused by chronic
hypoxia exposure may lead to detrimental population effects such as reduced survival, growth,
and fecundity. The purpose of our study was to determine if hypoxia elicits physiological stress
in red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii by examining physiological biomarkers (hemolymph
lactate, glucose, and protein concentrations) in individuals from chronically hypoxic areas of the
ARB and laboratory hypoxia experiments. Adult P. clarkii from normoxic and hypoxic areas in
the ARB were sampled monthly from April to July 2010. Laboratory experiments subjected P.
clarkii to severe hypoxia (1 mg/L DO), moderate hypoxia (2 mg/L DO), or normoxic conditions
(control: DO > 7.5 mg/L) for 12, 24, and 48 hours. Crayfish hemolymph was collected by
pericardial cavity puncture and serum lactate, glucose, and protein concentrations were
spectrophotometrically determined. P. clarkii from normoxic and hypoxic ARB habitats did not
display significantly different hemolymph lactate or glucose
concentrations, however, mean hemolymph protein
concentration was significantly lower in crayfish from
hypoxic areas (F1,77 = 8.89, P = 0.0038). Conversely, P.
clarkii exposed to severe hypoxia in laboratory experiments
had significantly higher hemolymph lactate and glucose
concentrations for all three exposure times, whereas large
differences in protein concentrations were not observed.
These results suggest that elevated hemolymph lactate and
glucose concentrations are responses to acute hypoxia in P.
clarkii, while differences in protein concentrations are the
result of chronic hypoxic exposure. Furthermore, these
results demonstrate that physiological responses by animals
to environmental stressors under laboratory simulations can
vary markedly from the actual responses experienced in
natural environments.
Figure 1. Mean (±SE) hemolymph (A) lactate, (B) glucose, and (C)
protein concentrations in P. clarkii subjected to three laboratory
simulated DO concentrations during three exposure time
experiments. Different letters indicate a significant difference (P <
0.05) for each physiological parameter within a time trial experiment.
17
The naked truth: the effects of a low head dam on the population genetic structure of the
naked sand darter (Ammocrypta beanii) in the Pearl River, Louisiana
David T. Camak* and Kyle R. Piller
Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA.
David.Camak@selu.edu
Anthropogenic modifications to aquatic habitats, such as dams, can fragment lotic systems,
disrupt fluvial continuity and modify flow patterns. Such structures could negatively impact
riverine ecology and potentially act as barriers to gene flow. Although previous studies have
examined potential negative effects of aquatic barriers on population structure and gene flow,
most have focused on large species of fish that are highly vagile and have low habitat specificity.
The overall goal of the study is to assess the impacts of low head dams on the genetic structure
of stream fishes (Etheostomatine darters) in the Pearl River basin. We examined genetic
variation of the Naked Sand Darter (Ammocrypta beanii) within the Pearl River basin using eight
microsatellite loci. Specimens were also analyzed from three control sites in the Lake
Pontchartrain basin (Tangipahoa River system). A minimum of thirty specimens was sampled
from a total of twelve sites across both basins. Our data suggests that there are no distinct
genetic differences above and below the two low head dams (Pools Bluff and Bogue Chitto Sills)
in the Pearl River basin. The implications of these results and a comprehensive summary of this
data will be presented. Future work includes the addition of other species, which will provide
additional data for a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term impacts of dams on
aquatic species.
18
Microgeographic population structure in gulf shrimp along the Louisiana coastline.
Mollie F. Cashner* and Kyle R. Piller
Biology Department, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA.
mollie.cashner@selu.edu
Brown shrimp (Farfantepenaeus aztecus) and White shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus) are
important species for Louisiana’s commercial shrimping industry, accounting for over half of the
annual average value of fisheries within the state. Previous studies have shown that white shrimp
are composed of two genetically divergent populations, with western Gulf of Mexico populations
distinct from those in the eastern Gulf and Atlantic. Brown shrimp, on the other hand, show little
or no population structure across this same broad geographic scale. However, these conclusions
are based on limited population sampling across the range. We generated mtDNA (control
region) sequences for 20-30 individuals of each species from each of the seven Louisiana Coastal
Study Areas (CSA). All specimens were collected in 2011 but represent at least 2 cohorts. White
shrimp from CSAs 1-3 are significantly different from those collected in CSAs 4-7, while brown
shrimp show no distinction among CSAs. Furthermore, our evidence suggests a reduction in
genetic variation among cohorts of white shrimp in CSA 1 (summer vs. fall). White shrimp are
more dependent on the estuaries of the Louisiana coast than are brown shrimp, which likely
accounts for differences in population structure across their respective ranges. Furthermore,
reduction in genetic variation among cohorts may be a direct result of fatalities due to the 2010
BP oil spill. Additional work is necessary to establish whether these patterns of genetic variation
persist in future cohorts.
Figure 1. Brown and white shrimp Fst p-values for a subset of CSAs and the localities of each
CSA. Significant p-values are indicate with a ^. Putative area of white shrimp population divide
is indicated with a dark line.
19
Economic feasibility of production scenarios for cocahoe minnows in Louisiana
Jill Christoferson1*, Julie A. Anderson1, Rex Caffey2, and Christopher C. Green3
1
School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton
Rouge, LA. JChristoferson@Agcenter.lsu.edu,
2
Center for Natural Resource Economics and Policy, Louisiana State University Agricultural
Center, Baton Rouge, LA.
3
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, 2410 Ben Hur
Rd., Baton Rouge, LA
A project involving research and extension objectives centered on the Gulf killifish (Fundulus
grandis) also known as cocahoe minnow began in 2009. Upon its initiation seventy-one
Louisiana bait shop and marina owners were sent a baitfish survey. Response rates indicated that
over fifty percent of those bait sellers could not meet the demand for Gulf killifish, even with
three or more suppliers. Based on these results, a need for year round baitfish production was
identified as a potential alternative to the seasonally wild-caught supply. Research needs were
focused in the areas of egg production, stocking density, sex rations, collection cycles,
temperature maintenance, optimal feeding and the economics involved such an operation. To
develop an accurate economic assessment, six potential production systems were identified as
well as the current situation. These systems ranged from the current practice of wild harvest to
an intensive recirculated culture scenario. For all of these scenarios foreseeable costs were
identified and quantified. Projected income was identified as a result of several interviews with
existing bait shop owners and harvesters. These interviews yielded information on their current
volume of sale, pricing and mortality with regards to cocahoe minnows. All of this information
was used to create generic economic models for these scenarios to identify which one could be
the most feasible. We are continuing to make our analysis more accurate by collecting
information from independent co-operators outside of the university who have been growing
these fish in their own systems. This information coupled with our current economic analysis is
designed to create a feasibility report for potential producers to consider when developing their
business. Currently a large scale operation which utilizes pool spawning and pond grow-out
shows the most promise.
20
A marine fish out of seawater and other interesting occurrences of fishes in Louisiana’s
inland waters
Michael H. Doosey* and Henry L. Bart Jr.
Tulane University Museum of Natural History, Belle Chasse, LA. mdoosey@tulane.edu
About 250 species of fishes are known from Louisiana’s inland waterways. The distributions of
most freshwater game and native non-game fishes are well known, but there are several rare and
unusual occurrences of fish species in Louisiana. A search of FishNet2 and other databases has
revealed the identities of these interesting species. Many of the rare fish records involve marine
species that have entered fresh or brackish water. The most unusual records involve transient
occurrences of primary freshwater fishes from other parts of the U.S. or introduced exotic
species. The occurrences of both of these groups of unusual fish records in Louisiana’s inland
waters are reviewed. Several freshwater fish species have been collected in Louisiana that are
typical of northern, more upland parts of the Mississippi River Basin and Great Lakes.
Examples include Rainbow Smelt, Northern Pike, Rainbow Trout, and Walleye. Other records
involve native species that are found in Louisiana because of an extralimital occurrence. These
include Sicklefin Chub and Black Redhorse, among other species. About 50 marine species are
known to enter fresh or brackish water in Louisiana. Some of the uncommon species include
Mountain Mullet, Crevalle Jack, Spanish Mackerel, and several gobies. The possible source
populations for these unusual fishes and the likelihood of populations becoming established in
Louisiana are also discussed.
21
Preliminary comparison of two coastal marsh populations of alligator gar (Atractosteus
spatula) in Louisiana
Justin R. Duke1*, Allyse M. Ferrara1, Quenton C. Fontenot1, Gary J. LaFleur, Jr.1, and Brac
Salyers2
1
Bayousphere Research Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, Nicholls State University,
Thibodaux, LA; 2Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge,
Grand Chenier, LA. justinduke@hotmail.com
Habitat degradation and loss has reduced the range and abundance of alligator gar Atractosteus
spatula. To evaluate and compare two coastal Louisiana populations of alligator gar with
different harvest rates, we are making seasonal collections from Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge
(RWR) and Terrebonne Estuary (TE). RWR is closed to commercial fishing and has limited
recreational harvest of alligator gar while TE has unrestricted commercial and recreational
fisheries. Fish are collected using multifilament gill nets, jug lines, electrofishing and
bowfishing. Each population is sampled seasonally, until a minimum of 50 alligator gar are
collected. For each alligator gar, total length (mm), pre-pelvic girth (anterior to the pelvic fins,
mm), total weight (kg) and gonad weight (g) are measured. Preliminary results for alligator gar
collected to date from RWR (N=196) include mean total length 1208±14 mm, mean weight
10.9±0.44 kg, and mean girth 454±7 mm. Preliminary results for TE (N=177) include mean total
length 1176±16 mm, mean weight 9.8±0.45 kg, and mean girth 438±6 mm. This study will
allow us to better quantify the reproductive potential of coastal populations of alligator gar and to
more accurately estimate productivity using population models. The results of this study will
inform future management decisions regarding coastal alligator gar populations.
Figure 1. Length frequency distribution of alligator gar collected from Terrebonne Estuary
(N = 177) and Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge (N= 199).
22
Effects of potassium ion concentration on growth, survival, and ion regulation in Gulf
killifish (Fundulus grandis)
Calvin Fisher*,1, Christopher Green1, and Charlotte Bodinier2
1
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University AgCenter, Baton Rouge, LA.
cfisher@agcenter.lsu.edu; Cgreen@agcenter.lsu.edu; 2Department of Biological Sciences,
Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
The Gulf killifish Fundulus grandis is an estuarine baitfish used to catch several major sportfish
along the Gulf of Mexico. They are a hardy fish able to withstand a wide range of temperatures
and salinities giving them potential as a cultured marine baitfish species within Louisiana. The
source and composition of saline water for culture of this species could have a large impact on its
successful culture. Several studies have been completed to optimize Gulf killifish spawning and
egg incubation methods; however few studies examine larval rearing and ion regulation. The
goal of this experiment was to determine growth, survival, and ion regulation of larval Gulf
killifish at varying K+ concentrations. A 4 week study was completed in four separate
recirculating systems with newly hatched Gulf killifish. Salinity in all four systems was
maintained between 9.5-10 g/L. Two of the systems were maintained using crystal salt (99.6%
NaCl) with K+ supplementation (1.31 + 0.04 mmol/L and 2.06 + 0.04 mmol/L K+; mean + SEM)
one system was maintained with crystal salt and no K+ supplementation (0.33 + 0.05 mmol/L
K+), the fourth system was maintained using a standard marine mix salt (2.96 + 0.04 mmol/L
K+). Each system consisted of eight 50-L aquariums, four aquariums were stocked at 7 larvae per
liter, and the remaining four were stocked at 18 larvae per liter to represent high and low
stocking densities. One tank from each density was designated for biological sampling; samples
were collected at 0, 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, and 28 d post hatch. Upon sampling the standpipe was
adjusted to maintain a constant density for each treatment. Collected samples were analyzed for
whole body ion concentrations (K+, Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+), Na+/K+-ATPase activity, and dry weight.
Immunocytochemistry was also performed to look for the presence of osmoregulatory proteins in
gills and intestine. Final survival was determined after 4 weeks for K+ concentration treatments.
Larvae stocked into water with no K+ supplementation resulted in 100% mortality within 24 h of
hatch. Mortality and growth was significantly influenced by K+ concentration at both stocking
densities (p < 0.05). At 28-d post hatch, there were significant differences in dry weight among
K+ treatment groups at both high and low densities (Figure 1).
7 larvae/L
6
4
4
2
2
0
0
10
20
DPH
18 larvae/L
6
30
0
0
10
20
30
DPH
Figure 1: Individual mean dry weight for larvae reared at 18 larvae per liter and 7 larvae per liter at 0-28 days post hatch. Lines for each density
treatment represent mean K+ concentrations for 2.9 mmol (―), 2.0 mmol (- -), and 1.3 mmol ( - ▪ - ).
23
Commercial-scale sperm cryopreservation for blue catfish
E Hu* and Terrence Tiersch.
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA
70820. ehu@agcenter.lsu.edu
The U.S. catfish industry has been in decline as fuel and feed prices have risen. However,
production of hybrid catfish (channel catfish female × blue catfish male) has remained strong.
The demand for artificial spawning to produce hybrid catfish fry has increased, and now
limitation of broodstock males has become a critical constraint. Sperm cryopreservation
technology provides a solution to storage and distribution problems with sperm of blue catfish
without losing fertility. Because small laboratory-level cryopreservation cannot satisfy
commercial-scale hybrid fry production, our goal was to develop a manufacturing line capability
that achieves high-throughput sperm cryopreservation for blue catfish. The objectives were to:
1) adapt automation to the cryopreservation process; 2) apply cryopreserved sperm at a
commercial-scale; 3) provide evaluation methods for the cryopreserved product; 4) educate
potential users about cryopreserved germplasm; 5) establish a quality assurance plan for the
manufacturing line, and 6) model production by use of computer simulation software. There are
several automated systems designed for sperm cryopreservation of mammals. We adopted the
MAPI system from CryoBioSystem (Paris, France) to ensure high biosecurity and developed a
model process. In cooperation with the Baxter Land Company (Dermott, AR) and the USDA
Catfish Genetics Research Unit (Stoneville, MS), we processed fish each year from 2009 to
2012. In 2010 and 2011, cryopreserved sperm was evaluated in the commercial hatchery of
Baxter and Company and 200,000 hybrid
fry were produced each day for 7 days.
Evaluation of cryopreserved fish sperm
cannot be based on traditional mammalian
conception rates, and thus fertilization of
specific numbers of eggs and other
parameters (e.g. motility, membrane
integrity) were used for evaluation.
Meanwhile, educational user manuals
were developed to assist public
acceptance of the new products. As an
automated production line, sperm
processing was under constant quality
monitoring with established quality
characteristics specifications. Computer
Figure 1. Simulation model
simulation models were built to represent
demonstration of the structure of
the production line, expand throughput,
high-throughput cryopreservation of
increase efficiency, and remove bottlenecks
blue catfish sperm (ARENA software,
in the process (Figure 1). This project
version 13.50.000000, Rockwell Automation
provides a comprehensive platform for high- Inc., Milwaukee, WI).
throughput cryopreservation of blue catfish
sperm and opens the door for future
commercialization of this technology.
24
Application of biotechnology in addressing Asian carp management initiatives
Jill A. Jenkins*
U.S. Geological Survey, National Wetlands Research Center, Lafayette, LA 70506.
jenkinsj@usgs.gov
Asian carp are nonindigenous in the U.S. and include grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella, silver
carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, bighead carp H. nobilis, and black carp Mylopharyngodon
piceus. Ecological and economic damage may result when populations become established in
non-permitted habitats. A national Asian carp management and control plan (Plan) (Conover et
al. 2007; asiancarp.us) spells out goals with specific strategies. The objective of this research
employing flow cytometry (FCM) technology in assessing ploidy with Asian carp species was to
develop protocols beneficial to the producers of triploid carp, as well as to address needs of
natural resource managers. Management applications of triploid animals revolve around being
able to effectively evaluate their ploidy level. Polyploid organisms have one or additional sets of
chromosomes, whereas triploids, having three sets, are generally considered sterile, while
diploids have the normal two sets and are reproductively capable. The commercial advantages
of triploid black and grass carp are their targeted use as molluscivores and herbivores,
respectively, as well as their sterility. Of the various methodologies for discriminating ploidy,
FCM provides the highest sensitivity and has proven useful with larvae, adults, and post-mortem
individuals, as well as with species used as food or sportfish commodities. Iterations of the
scientific advances in ploidy research made through FCM can be applied directly to the Asian
carp Plan’s strategies in meeting its goals. These advances make possible 1) accurate estimates
of ploidy percentages of batches of larvae after yolk absorption, as verified in field grow-out
trials; 2) ploidy determinations from dead fish through analysis of their eyes, within 2 weeks if
maintained cooled or frozen with 20% methanol in buffer, and; 3) establishment of blood from
Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus as an optimal internal control for assessing ploidy of fieldcaught or hatchery-produced triploids by virtue of their genome size of 2.40 pg as determined by
FCM. Some of the pertinent specific strategies in the Plan for which this line of research is
relevant include 1) assisting the science of the National Triploid Grass Carp Inspection Program;
2) supporting the aquaculture production of triploid grass, black, and bighead carps; 3)
documenting the occurrence of triploids or diploids, relevant in determining dispersal dynamics
of the feral nonnatives; 4) aiding managers at barriers meant to impede fish movements; 5)
modeling breeding potential to forecast expansion; 6) generating triploids or monosex tetraploids
to inhibit reproduction and recruitment of feral carp, and; 7) facilitating research and
development of such transgenic manipulations as daughterless carp and Trojan gene
technologies. Integrating FCM expertise within committees which coordinate and drive
implementation efforts among partner agencies will promote attainment of the Plan goals of
Asian carp management and control.
25
Impacts of artificial reef addition on the nekton community of a Louisiana estuary: A
before-after-control-impact analysis
Kari E. Klotzbach*1, Steven B., Garner1, Joris L. van der Ham2, James H. Cowan, Jr.1, and
Kevin M. Boswell3
1
Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge,
LA. kklotz1@tigers.lsu.edu; 2Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason
University, Fairfax, VA. jvanderh@gmu.edu; 3Marine Sciences Program, Department of
Biological Sciences, Florida International University, North Miami, FL.
Artificial reefs are acknowledged as habitat for fishes and invertebrates and have been used to
restore or enhance natural habitats that have become degraded. Increased nekton abundances
and biomass are often cited as justification for deploying artificial reefs, however the effects of
reef addition on nekton community dynamics remain unclear. We used a before-after-controlimpact (BACI) design to assess the impacts of artificial reef addition on nektonic fish and
crustaceans in four shallow marsh ponds near Empire, LA. Marsh ponds were sampled using
both seine tows and fyke nets every other month from May 2009 to November 2010. Five sites
within each pond, four consisting of soft-bottom habitat and one of marsh edge habitat, were
sampled. Midway through the study period (March 2010), 110 tons of limestone cobble were
distributed across two soft-bottom sites in two ponds to mimic oyster reefs. Over 113,000
individuals comprising 57 species were collected using both gear types. A combination of
PERMANOVA and mixed-model ANOVA statistical techniques were used to determine the
impacts of artificial reef addition on nekton species richness, diversity, and community structure
for impact assessment, habitat comparisons, and seasonality. Preliminary results on species
richness and diversity show decreases as a result of artificial reef addition. Reef addition did not
have a significant effect on community structure, however a strong seasonal effect was observed.
26
Trace element anomalies in otolith microchemistry of red snapper (Lujantus
campechanus): before and after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill
Marshall J. Kormanec*, James Cowan Jr., and Stephen Potts
Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences, School of Coast & Environment, Louisiana
State University, Baton Rouge LA 70803. mkorma1@lsu.edu
The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, located in the Mississippi Canyon region of the northern Gulf
of Mexico, released approximately 200 million gallons and was the largest release of crude oil in
the history of the United States. The crude oil released from the well, known as sweet crude,
lacked sulfur compounds and consisted of trace elements, and a few thousand organic
compounds, such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are difficult to detect in tissue
samples. Otoliths, or ear bones of teleost fishes, contain a calcium carbonate (aragonite) matrix
that is sensitive to changes in depth and linear acceleration in the water column. During the
annual formation of the crystal structure, lattice-vacancies exist during formation allowing trace
elements to bind to the otolith. This study will examine: the bioaccumulation of trace elements in
the otoliths red snapper Lujantus campechanus, by comparing the otolith microchemistry of fish
caught: before, and after the oil spill. Prior to the oil spill approximately 2500 otolith samples
were digested and analyzed for a suite of trace elements at ALS Laboratories using a
Thermoscientific Element2 sector field-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer (SF-ICPMS). Currently, 517 red snapper otoliths having a total length of less than 600mm have been
digested and analyzed for the suite of trace elements that were collected during and after the oil
spill. The mean biological age of the otoliths digested is 3.78 ± 1.14 years (mean±SD). Fish of
this length corresponded to fish that were alive directly before and after DWH oil spill and are
expected to contain minimal amounts of ambient trace elements accumulated in the water
column. Concentrations of trace elements within the otolith will be compared using a suite
statistics analyses, including principle component analysis, logistic regression and linear
discriminant analysis to determine significant differences that are a result of the spill and the
presence of oil. Results are forthcoming. Following the preliminary analysis, if significant
differences are found then we will increase our sample size and repeat the digestion using SFICP-MS. Comparing trace element concentrations of pre-spill and post-spill otoliths may prove
to be a secondary line of evidence of exposure to toxic organic compounds, namely PAHs.
Figure 1- Locations of sample sites.
Green are current locations, red are
locations of pre & post spill samples,
yellow are pre-spill locations
27
The effect of oil dispersants and salinity on the biodegradation of south Louisiana crude oil
and impacts on gulf killifish Fundulus grandis
Adam Kuhl* and Christopher C. Green
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA.
akuhl@agcenter.lsu.edu
Chemical dispersants like COREXIT are an important technology in the remediation of oil spill
in the aquatic environment and facilitate the chemical, physical, and biological degradation of
crude oil. Further, it has been demonstrated that environmental salinity is an important factor in
the effectiveness of the dispersants on the breakdown of crude oil. Thus the purpose of this work
is to investigate the effect of a dispersant on the degradation of crude oil and study the effects of
varying oil degradation on acute toxicity and a sublethal physiological response in a common
estuarine fish. We hypothesize that biodegraded oil in the presence of dispersant will persist
longer and have greater toxicity than non-dispersed oil. Laboratory mesocosms were designed
with oxic water at salinities of 4, 12, or 18 g/L overlying sediment that has an oxic surface layer
and an anoxic subservice, simulating various estuarine conditions seen along the Gulf coast.
Mesocosm water was spiked with various combinations of ~ 2.7g/L of Crude Oil and ~0.25g/L
of COREXIT 9500. Treatments consist of water mixed with crude oil alone, COREXIT alone, a
combined exposure to crude oil and COREXIT, and a control and allowed to biodegrade in
mesocosms for 1, 4, and 16 weeks prior to harvesting water for analytical analysis and acute
toxicity testing. Acute toxicity was assessed using a 96-hr static-renewal acute toxicity bioassay
and juvenile common Gulf killifish (F. grandis). Following exposures, fish were harvested and
cytosolic and nuclear protein fractions were isolated. Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD)
and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) enzyme activity were measured and used as a biomarker of
sublethal polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure. Results of these projects are ongoing,
however, oil alone has shown to be non-lethal at 1, 4 and 16 weeks while dispersed oil
demonstrated marked increased lethality. Further, dispersed oil demonstrated reduced toxicity
following 4 and 16 weeks of biodegradation. Sublethal biomarkers of PAH exposure
demonstrate that oil alone is not sufficient to induce a detectable increase in bioactivity of PAH
metabolizing enzymes. Conversely, dispersed oil increased bioactivity persisted though the
highest dilutions and can even be detected following 16 weeks of biodegradation. This data
indicates that dispersed oil increased the bioavailability of PAH resulting in both greater acute
and sublethal toxicity.
28
Distribution patterns of fish communities associated with northwest Gulf of Mexico hardbottom habitat
Todd A Langland* and James H. Cowan
Department of Oceanography and Coastal Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge,
LA. tlangl8@lsu.edu
The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council designated fifteen natural reefs and banks in
the northwestern Gulf of Mexico as habitat areas of particular concern (HAPCs) in 2005. Despite
this management-driven designation, little is known about the fish communities associated with
these features aside from species composition. This study will provide new information about the
distribution and size frequencies of individuals within fish communities associated with
northwestern Gulf of Mexico natural hard-bottom habitat. Information about the amount, sizes,
and species of fish supported by these natural features will greatly benefit management of many
commercially important species, as well as provide insight into what aspects of natural relief are
preferred by different fish communities. Three years of quarterly hydroacoustic surveys will be
performed at three shelf-edge banks and a hard bottom feature in the East Cameron artificial reef
planning area to characterize the reef fish biomass and size distributions associated with distinct
benthic habitat zones. Habitat characteristics and fish size data will be obtained from video
transects sampled with a remotely operated vehicle. Differences in biomass and community sizestructure between habitat zones will be considered on individual banks and study-wide. At the
individual bank scale, reef fish biomass is expected to be higher on shallower, more complex
habitat zones. While diversity and biomass have been positively correlated to habitat complexity,
effects on size distributions are less well known; this study will attempt to resolve such a
relationship. At the more extensive study-wide scale, banks characterized by larger hardsubstrate area and increased prominence (deeper base and shallower crest) are hypothesized to
support a higher total biomass than smaller, less prominent banks, although this could vary
significantly among individual species.
29
An industry in decline: finding the optimal oyster stock and ideal temperature and salinity
conditions for the commercial production of Louisiana oysters (Crassostrea virginica)
Justin M. Leonhardt*, John E. Supan, and Jerome LaPeyre
School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA.
jleonh1@tigers.lsu.edu
The eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica, plays important ecological and economic roles in
Louisiana. Unfortunately, over-harvesting, disease-driven mortality, natural disasters, and
anthropogenic alterations to the environment have negatively affected the stability of the oyster
resource, thus decreasing production in the oyster industry. Commercial intensive oyster
aquaculture, which relies on hatchery-based seed oyster production and improved grow out
methods, can be used to effectively supplement wild oyster production and support the needs of
the industry. With the recent production of a hatchery-developed, disease-resistant oyster,
resistant to Perkinsus marinus (dermo), it is necessary that we compare this oyster stock to wild
Louisiana oyster stocks to determine the most suitable stock for commercial production. This
study will analyze and compare the growth and mortality of three wild Louisiana oyster stocks
and one disease-resistant Louisiana oyster stock along a salinity gradient in Breton Sound as well
as deployment in an intensive longline culture system at the Research and Demonstration Farm
in Grand Isle, LA. Condition index, meat yield, and dermo infection intensity of each stock will
be monitored to analyze each oyster stocks’ condition throughout the study. Through these
methods, the optimal oyster stock, temperature, and salinity conditions will be determined for
increasing oyster aquaculture production in Louisiana.
30
Estimating natural mortality rates for juvenile white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus) along
an estuarine salinity gradient
Marvin Mace III1* and Lawrence Rozas2
1
Biology Department, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Lafayette, LA. trey.mace@noaa.gov;
2
NOAA/National Marine Fisheries Service/SEFSC, Estuarine Habitats and Coastal Fisheries
Center, Lafayette, LA.
Natural mortality is an important, yet difficult to estimate, parameter in models of fishery
population dynamics. Natural mortality rates are not only important in stock assessments, but
these rates can help to identify essential habitat and nursery areas for fisheries species. The
purpose of our study was to estimate and compare natural mortality rates for juvenile white
shrimp Litopenaeus setiferus among three different vegetation-salinity zones (intermediate,
brackish, and saline) in the Sabine Lake estuary. Instantaneous natural mortality rates (M) for
juvenile white shrimp were estimated using the decline in abundance of individual shrimp
cohorts through time. Shrimp were collected
biweekly from July to October 2011, and data from
2 consecutive sampling dates will be presented. A
length frequency distribution (LFD) was constructed
separately for each sampling date and salinity zone.
Individual cohorts were identified from the overall
LFD using the program MIX, which provided a
mean length ± standard deviation as well as the
number of individuals for each cohort. The number
of individuals in the same cohort on the first and
second sampling dates was used to calculate a
mortality rate for the period between sampling
dates. We were able to identify and calculate
mortality rates for 2 cohorts in the saline zone (Fig.
1), 2 in the brackish zone (M = 0.01 and 0.07 day-1),
and 1 in the intermediate zone (M = 0.02 day-1).
Although these results are preliminary, the estimates
are within the range of the few previously reported
mortality rates for juvenile white shrimp. We are
processing the remaining samples, and the complete
dataset will then be used to compare mortality rates
among the 3 salinity zones of the Sabine Lake
estuary.
31
Reassessment of population trends and conservation status of Louisiana’s rare freshwater
fishes using data from natural history collections
Justin G. Mann* and Henry L. Bart Jr.
Tulane University Museum of Natural History, Belle Chasse, LA. jmann@tulane.edu
Establishing conservation priorities within aquatic habitats in Louisiana has been difficult due to
an overall lack of available ecological and biological information. Natural history collection
computerization and networking efforts are giving researchers unprecedented access to the
wealth of species occurrence data found in those collections. By utilizing the data available in
biological collections, one can begin to identify and protect the rare and endangered species
found in Louisiana’s waters. The Louisiana Natural Heritage Program lists 28 species of fish as
rare in Louisiana. We use historical catch data harvested from Fishnet 2 to determine if 20 of the
28 species listed are showing signs of threat. The species studied were chosen for their primarily
freshwater nature, their lack of any research aimed at status assessment within the last 10 to 15
years, as well as the consistency of available data. Data was only deemed “available” after
extensive cleaning, and refinement. This included name consolidation, inappropriate data
removal, and time period truncation. A Mann-Kendall trend analysis was performed, using mean
abundance to identify collection trends over time. Multiple probabilistic models were used to
infer extirpation threat. The models were, the Solow equation (Solow 1993), a modified version
of the Solow equation (McCarthy 1997), which accounts for collection effort, and a nonparametric version (Solow and Roberts 2003). The Solow equation results suggest that 9 of the
20 species tested have been extirpated from Louisiana. The Partial Solow test results suggest that
13 species have been extirpated. The conservative Non-Parametric test results suggest that only
the Pearl darter (Percina aurora) has been extirpated. Thirteen species showed significant
downward population trends based on the Mann-Kendall test results. Significant results (p <
0.05) for three tests were interpreted as a strong indication that the species being tested are
indeed declining. Utilizing natural history data in this way is an effective strategy for
accomplishing conservation objectives in terms of cost, accessibility, accuracy and information
content (Ungricht et al. 2005).
32
Patterns of richness and endemism of fishes of the Western Gulf Slope with an emphasis on
the biogeographical role of the eastern drainages
Robert J. Maxwell*,1 and Timothy H. Bonner2
1
Inland Fisheries Section, Office of Fisheries, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries,
Lake Charles, LA, rmaxwell@wlf.la.gov; 2Aquatic Station, Department of Biology, Texas State
University, San Marcos, TX,
Taxa richness and endemism among animals are influenced by current environmental conditions
as well as ancestral biotic conditions. We tested patterns in taxa richness and endemism among
Western Gulf Slope (WGS) fishes against water availability gradients and their ancestral origins
to assess conformity of species diversity among WGS drainages. A total of 155 species of native
fishes was plotted among 196 sub-basins of the WGS. Taxa richness was highest in eastern
WGS and lowest in the western WGS, closely conforming to the rainfall gradient. Numbers of
endemic fishes, however, were highest in the western WGS and lowest in the eastern WGS.
Three regions of note are the Brazos Basin, which exhibited a pronounced increase in endemism
compared to adjacent Eastern drainages; the Guadalupe Basin, which contained the greatest
number of endemic taxa in the Edwards Plateau; and the Rio Grande and Pecos Basins which
contained the greatest numbers of endemic taxa in the WGS. Widespread fishes exhibiting
ranges within as well as beyond the WGS were primarily of eastern ancestral origin, while
endemic species’ ancestors largely evolved to the north or southwest of the WGS. This study
found current and historical environmental conditions, ancestral biological conditions, time of
residence, isolation, dispersal, and extirpation, all played significant roles in determining current
native distributions of WGS fishes. Our findings suggest that since the Pleistocene, the eastern
drainages of the WGS have acted as a source of species colonizations throughout the region, and
the western drainages have acted as a sink. Considering the source/sink dynamics of the
drainages of the region, we suggest that conservation policies and research should not neglect the
more species rich waters of the eastern WGS despite their general lack of threatened and
endangered species.
33
The relationship of lead net soak time to sample catch rate
R. Lynn Mathews and Richard D. Moses*
Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, 1995 Shreveport Hwy, Pineville, LA 71360.
lmathews@wlf.la.gov
This study was designed to determine optimal soak time for lead nets to maximize catch rates of
crappie (Pomoxis spp.). A secondary objective was to evaluate the effects of predation on
crappie once they were confined in the lead nets. Four central Louisiana lakes were sampled in
the fall of 2009 and 2010. All crappie and predatory species [primarily catfish (Ictalurus spp.)]
caught were weighed and measured individually. The stomach contents of the catfish were
examined and when possible contents were identified, weighed and measured. The four soak
time periods evaluated included 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours. The catch-per-unit effort (CPUE) was
based on the number of crappie caught per hour of soak time. There was no significant difference
in the crappie CPUE between the 4 soak times evaluated. However the total number of crappie
caught in the 72 and 96 hour soak times were almost double the 24 and 48 hour soak times.
Therefore utilizing a longer soak time would increase the number of crappie collected per trip
thus minimizing work effort. The size-ratio of the crappie caught does not change with regard to
soak time. Predation on crappie confined in the lead nets increased as soak time increased.
There does not appear to be any significant relationship between predator catch and crappie catch
and size.
34
Ovarian cycle and fisheries management: the channel catfish story
Noel D. Novelo and Terrence R. Tiersch
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA,
70820. nnovelo@agcenter.lsu.edu
Changes in morphology during the ovarian cycle have been monitored using ultrasonography in
spawning experiments with channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus before and during the natural
spawning season, and during the annual cycle. These studies have led to the development of
systematic, repeatable methods for fish handling, imaging, and interpretation of reproductive
condition of female channel catfish. The integration of a new technology into catfish spawning
and consequent development of techniques and application in catfish reproduction provides a
guideline and learning model on how to approach introduction of other new technologies into
management of endangered and other fisheries species. Three key factors to consider are: (1)
integration of the new technology with existing studies (program project) and previously used
technologies and methods; (2) development of consistent techiques and reporting using the new
technology, and (3) assessment of the technology application in the field. This channel catfish
ultrasound imaging story contributes to an understanding of processes underlying introduction of
new technologies into existing programs and approaches for improving capabilities in fisheries
management (Figure1).
Figure 1. Developing new approaches through integration of new technologies into approaches
for management of fisheries.
35
Production of river bathymetry maps using a low cost single beam sonar unit
Devon C. Oliver*, William E. Kelso and Michael D. Kaller
Louisiana State University, School of Renewable Natural Resources, Room 227, Renewable
Natural Resources Bldg., Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803.
dolive3@tigers.lsu.edu
Although the high cost of commercial sonar units may have historically limited the development
of bathymetry maps, production of low cost bathymetry units in the last 10 years has made these
data much more available. Bathymetry data is an integral part of habitat analyses in lotic
systems, and is closely tied to habitat selectivity among stream dwelling fishes and invertebrates.
Developing bathymetry maps for rivers will allow us to quantify the availability of deep water
pools, transitional zones and shallow habitats, and ultimately identify reaches where
management activities could improve habitat conditions for resident fishes. The Pearl River in
southeastern Louisiana currently supports several benthic fishes, including the southeastern blue
sucker Cycleptus meridionalis, which appear to have declined substantially in abundance, due in
part to alterations in river hydrology and morphology. We conducted bathymetric surveys in the
lower Pearl River from summer 2010-fall 2011 using a single beam sonar unit. Depth soundings
were validated and processed in ESRI ArcMap, and were extrapolated with an inverse density
weighting technique (cell size = 0.0001 decimal degrees). Predicted depths were verified with
the survey bathymetry soundings (N= 56,484) via linear regression (P <0.0001 R2= 0.975). The
high R2 indicates that highly accurate bathymetry maps can be produced with the low cost sonar
unit. Practices and methods used to develop the southeastern blue sucker Pearl River bathymetry
maps appear successful and maybe used to develop a standard for producing maps in other
coastal rivers for the conservation and management of fishes.
36
Southeastern blue suckers (Cycleptus meridionalis) forgotten, but not lost yet: Low catches
and limited range of targeted habitats suggest continued concerns.
Devon C. Oliver*, William E. Kelso, and Michael D. Kaller
Louisiana State University, School of Renewable Natural Resources, Room 227, Renewable
Natural Resources Bldg., Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803.
dolive3@tigers.lsu.edu
Riverine fisheries management programs often do not focus on non-sport fish such as
catostomids, yet many suckers have become threatened or endangered throughout river systems
in the United States because of habitat alterations. In the Pearl River, sedimentation, dam
construction, and modifications have negatively impacted habitats used by southeastern blue
suckers Cycleptus meridionalis, a species of concern in both Louisiana and Mississippi. The
principal objective of this project is to investigate habitat use and demography of historically and
commercially important southeastern blue suckers in the lower Pearl River. During electrofishing
surveys in 2010 and 2011, we observed significantly lower catch rates for southeastern blue
sucker (Mean CPUE = 0.0435/minute) relative to three other common benthic Pearl River fishes,
including smallmouth buffalo Ictiobus bubalus (P< 0.0005), channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus
(P< 0.0001) and flathead catfish Pylodictus olivaris (P< 0.005). However, CPUE for
southeastern blue suckers was similar to quillback Carpiodes cyprinus (P=0.999) and highfin
carpsucker Carpiodes velifer (p=0.999), suggesting that river modifications may have affected
the entire catostomid assemblage in the lower Pearl River system (river redhorse Moxostoma
carinatum may also have been extirpated from this portion of the river over the last century). A
mark and recapture population analysis has yielded a low population estimate for southeastern
blue suckers, which combined with the low CPUE values for other catostomids indicates that
suitable habitat availability may be limiting populations of benthic suckers in the southern Pearl
River. Movements and habitat use of radio-tagged southeastern blue suckers indicate a strong
affinity for deeper, outside river bends with accumulations of large woody debris, with extended
periods of little movement from these habitats. Side scan bathymetry mapping of the lower Pearl
River will allow us to further quantify the availability of these apparently preferred habitats and
identify reaches where management activities could improve habitat conditions for this species.
37
Mississippi River freshwater diversions: highlights of biomonitoring results from the Davis
Pond and Caernarvon operations
Heather M. Olivier1*, Beth B. Bourgeois2, Paul J. Conzelmann3, Rassa Draugelis-Dale1, and Jill
A. Jenkins1
1
U.S. Geological Survey, National Wetlands Research Center, 700 Cajundome Blvd., Lafayette,
LA 70506; jenkinsj@usgs.gov; 2National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, Estuarine
Habitats and Coastal Fisheries Center, 646 Cajundome Blvd., Lafayette, LA 70506; 3U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services, 646 Cajundome Blvd., Lafayette, LA 70506 [Retired]
Diverting freshwater from the Mississippi River (MR) mitigates saltwater intrusion from the
Gulf of Mexico and is intended to lessen wetland loss. In addition to the freshwater inflow,
watersheds receive nutrients, increased volumes of sediments, and water-borne and sedimentbound compounds. Biomonitoring results are available from two fully functional diversions, at
the Caernarvon- and Davis Pond Diversion Structures, which redirect MR water into the Breton
Sound and Barataria Bay Estuary, respectively. At least eight additional MR diversions are
outlined in Louisiana’s 2012 Coastal Master Plan. The purpose of the biomonitoring studies at
these two diversions was to assess contaminant compound movements through ecosystems, so to
quantify and evaluate potential biological effects on animals. In each project, fish were collected
pre- and postdiversion from the MR and three marsh locations at increasing distances down
stream from structure outfalls. In Caernarvon studies, oyster composites as well as 20 species of
fish were sampled in two prediversion and two postdiversion collections (1990 to 1994). In
Davis Pond studies, whole bodies from three fish species and bivalve composites were assayed
for contaminants in one pre- and one postdiversion sampling (2001 and 2009). Contaminant
residues measured included organochlorines (OCs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHs), and trace elements.
Results between biomonitoring projects were not directly comparable due to study design
differences, but trends were observed. Species-specific differences were noted with particular
compounds in Davis Pond among the fish sampled at three trophic levels: striped mullet (Mugil
cephalus), blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus), and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). In
each postdiversion study, results indicated that organic contaminants (i.e. OCs, PCBs, AHs, and
DDT isomers) were increasing in marsh biota, particularly at sites closest to the river. Trace
element concentrations were compared to those from the National Contaminant Biomonitoring
Program (NCBP), where levels at, or exceeding, the 85th percentile thresholds represent cause for
concern.
Table 1. NCBP threshold concentrations, average concentrations and the percentages of Davis Pond postdiversion fish (n= 36) at or above NCBP
values.
Element
NCBP threshold value (ppm dry
Mean Concentration (SE) (ppm dry
Percent fish > threshold (%)
weight)
weight)
Arsenic
0.93
2.18 (0.30)
36.1
Copper
3.4
13.47 (2.3)
55.6
Lead
0.76
1.39 (0.21)
25.0
Mercury
0.59
0.88 (0.06)
16.7
38
Physiological effects of terrestrial stranding on Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis)
Paige E. O’Malley*, Charles A. Brown, Joshua T. Patterson, and Christopher C. Green
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
Baton Rouge, LA 70820. pomall1@tigers.lsu.edu
The Gulf killifish, Fundulus grandis, is a common estuarine baitfish species of the Gulf Coast
that may naturally undergo periods of terrestrial stranding due to tidal changes. During periods of
stranding, Gulf killifish must respire while managing the accumulation of toxic metabolites. The
current study was designed to examine effects of stranding on survival, respiration and the
accumulation of urea, ammonia, and lactic acid. Forty Gulf killifish (7.5 + 0.2 g, mean + SEM)
were wrapped in moist cheesecloth, evenly distributed among five plastic containers, and placed
in a temperature controlled incubation chamber (20.8 + 0.03 °C). Surviving fish from a single
plastic container were sampled at terrestrial stranding periods of 0, 3, 6, 9, and 15 hours. Overall
survival remained high throughout the experiment. Respirometry was used to measure standard
metabolic rate in five fish during an aquatic recovery period. Remaining survivors were sampled
for plasma and tissue. Plasma samples were used to determine urea, ammonia, and lactic acid
concentrations and gill tissues from each individual were preserved in RNAlater for anticipated
molecular analysis at a later date. No statistical difference was observed across time in urea,
ammonia, or lactic acid concentrations (p ≥ 0.05). In many species, terrestrial stranding proves
lethal relatively quickly, possibly due to critical increases in high concentrations of these plasma
metabolites. Absence of a significant increase in plasma concentrations of ammonia and urea
may be indicative of the ability of Gulf killifish to survive sustained stranding periods and
eliminate metabolites in alternative ways. Respirometry data indicated metabolic modifications
during the recovery period. Further molecular analysis will attempt to determine the mechanisms
allowing mobilization of metabolites and modification of oxygen uptake throughout stranding.
Trial Period
Figure 1. Overall survival after each of the stranding periods (n=10 per stranding period)
39
Effects of differential lipids levels in broodfish diets for Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis)
spawning in indoor recirculation systems
Joshua T. Patterson* and Christopher C. Green
Aquaculture Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center
Baton Rouge, LA 70820. JPatterson@agcenter.lsu.edu
Gulf killifish (Fundulus grandis) are a popular live baitfish in the coastal parishes of Louisiana.
This species is used to target spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus) and southern flounder
(Paralichthys lethostigma). Public interest in growing Gulf killifish has been gauged by surveys
and encouraged through workshops. One remaining limitation to successful culture is low
fecundity. Commercial scale production of embryos requires maintenance of large numbers of
broodfish, and a better understanding of the physiology of reproductive potential may help
reduce the resources producers must dedicate to spawning. Nine Gulf killifish per replicate were
stocked into a recirculation system at a 2:1 female to male ratio. Five isonitrogenous
experimental diets were formulated at 32.8±0.2% (mean±SEM) protein with increasing
percentages of lipid from menhaden oil. Lipid levels were 4.0, 6.3, 8.8, 11.2, and 13.8 %.
Treatments were randomly assigned in quadruplicate. After a six week inclusion feeding period,
spawning substrate was introduced. Eggs were collected twice a week for six weeks with overall
embryo production, embryo size, subsequent larval size, and fertilization rates recorded. Total
embryo production, fertilization rates, and liver total lipid content showed no significant
difference among dietary lipid treatment (Figure 1A, P>0.05). Ovary GSI values were
significantly higher in the lowest dietary lipid treatment, while IP fat was significantly elevated
among the two highest lipid treatments (Figure 1B, P>0.05). Larval morphometrics indicated
significant increases in body cavity area at the two highest dietary lipid treatment, which could
indicate an increase in lipid volume among these embryos. This research indicates that Gulf
killifish can be fed diets containing lipid levels in the 4-6% range without adverse effects on
reproduction.
Figure 1. Effects of increasing dietary lipid on (A) fecundity as measured by the number of eggs
per g body weight of female and (B) percent of interperitoneal fat at the conclusion of the 8week breeding period. Different letters above each column denote significant differences
(P<0.05)
40
Assessing Louisiana’s freshwater resources: a statewide analysis of landscape condition,
system function, and biological health
Bryan P. Piazza*,1, Thomas B. Kennedy1, David Harlan1, James F. Bergan1, C. Stephen Haase1,
and Micah G. Bennett2
1
The Nature Conservancy, Louisiana Field Office, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. bpiazza@tnc.org;
2
Department of Zoology and Center for Ecology Southern Illinois University-Carbondale,
Carbondale, Illinois
Louisiana is home to diverse and productive freshwater resources. However, little is known
about the current status of freshwater systems and specifically the effects of anthropogenic
alterations to them (i.e., dams, levees, channelization, dredging, industrial development). To
meet this need, we are creating a comprehensive, science-based assessment of Louisiana
freshwater resources on a watershed by watershed basis. The assessment will target measures of
system function, landscape integrity, and biological health of the major watersheds (USGS HUC8 classification) across the state. Additionally, we will investigate long term trends in river flow
and groundwater resources. Lastly, this analysis will be integrated with a coastal decisionsupport system developed by The Nature Conservancy to facilitate system-wide analysis and
conservation approaches. Our goals are to develop and prioritize innovative freshwater science
and conservation strategies for Louisiana and to educate and engage decision makers about the
status of freshwater resources statewide. Results will be designed to engage stakeholders,
resource managers, partners, and decision-makers and will range from easy-to-digest summaries
to a web-based viewer and decision-support tool for more rigorous users.
41
Habitat preference of fishes in nearshore central Louisiana: Integrating bioenergetics,
spatial, and individual based models.
Stephen E. Potts*
Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge,
LA. spotts2@tigers.lsu.edu
-91.715
This study will predict and measure the growth rates and preferred habitat locations of four
species of fish within the near shore central Louisiana coast. The fishes of interest are bay
anchovy (Anchoa mitchilli), Gulf menhaden (Brevoortia patronus), sand seatrout (Cynoscion
arenarius), and Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus). Bioenergetics models will be
adapted from existing state variable Wisconsin models to include the effects of temperature,
salinity, chlorophyll and dissolved oxygen on the growth rates of these species. The hypothesis
is that the location of fish will reflect the optimal conditions predicted by the growth models.
With permission from LDWF, I will use their total length, weight and number of each species
from quarterly bottom trawl collections, as well as physical parameters determined by CTD casts
at each site. Concomitantly with the LDWF trawls, we will conduct transects by coupling
scanfish surveys with hydroacoustics. The scanfish will continuously measure the physical
properties of the water column while the hydroacoustics will simultaneously record the biomass
and distribution of fishes. P-spline smoothing, a powerful statistical nonparametric regression
technique will be used to interpolate a 3D matrix of the region in order to create a spatially
explicit rendering containing all physical and biological parameters. These data will be
combined to create an environment in which a dynamic individual based model will be
performed. From this, predictions of fish dynamics within the Gulf of Mexico will be computed.
-91.725
4.4
4.2
-91.730
4.0
3.8
3.6
-91.735
Longitude
-91.720
4.6
3.4
28.275
28.280
28.285
Latitude
Sampling area, reproduced with
permission of LDWF.
Biomass distribution from P-spline
analysis, reproduced with
permission of Grace Harwell,
unpublished.
42
Response of imperiled Okaloosa Darters to restoration of stream habitat
David B. Reeves1*, Frank Jordan1, Howard L. Jelks2, and William Tate3
1
Department of Biological Sciences, Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, LA.
davidbradleyreeves@gmail.com; 2Florida Integrated Science Center, US Geological Survey,
Gainesville, FL; 3US Fish & Wildlife Service, Jackson Guard Natural Resources Facility, Eglin
Air Force Base, Niceville, FL
Okaloosa Darters (Etheostoma okaloosae) are small benthic fish restricted to six small drainages
in northwestern Florida. Okaloosa Darters were added to the Endangered Species List primarily
because of limited geographic distribution and loss of habitat. One of the criteria for improving
conservation status of imperiled Okaloosa Darters is restoration of suitable stream habitat. The
purpose of this research was to describe response of Okaloosa Darters to restoration of habitat in
two streams that were permanently impounded. The impoundment at Tom’s Creek near State
Road 123 was upstream of an abandoned railroad crossing made of unstable sediment covering a
metal culvert unsuitable for fish movement. American beaver maintained a permanent
impoundment by blocking the narrow opening of this culvert. The impoundment on Anderson
Branch was a recreational fishing pond formed and maintained by a dam. Impoundments were
drained, sediment was removed, control structures were removed, new channels were created,
woody debris was added, and flow was restored at both streams during the summer of 2010. We
visually quantified abundance of Okaloosa Darters and characterized habitat at multiple sites
above restoration areas, within restoration areas, and below restoration areas prior to restoration
and regularly thereafter. Prior to the study, Okaloosa Darters were abundant in free-flowing
sections above and below both restoration sites, but were likely absent from the impoundments.
Okaloosa Darter populations have recolonized the restored stream reaches and abundance is
slowly increasing to that of the control reaches. These data indicate that Okaloosa Darters are
likely to recover in restored areas.
43
Physiological reproductive seasonality of spotted gar, Lepisosteus oculatus, in the upper
Barataria Estuary, Louisiana
Emily E. Rombach*, Allyse M. Ferrara, and Quenton C. Fontenot
Bayousphere Research Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Nicholls State
University, Thibodaux, LA. erombach@its.nicholls.edu
The Barataria Estuary (UBE) is the southernmost western floodplain of the Mississippi River,
and has been cut off from the Mississippi River by flood-protection levees. The nearby
Atchafalaya River Basin (ARB) is a large bottomland hardwood swamp that receives an annual
floodpulse. Spotted gar, Lepisosteus oculatus, are common in both floodplains, but the altered
hydrology of the UBE may reduce the reproductive output of the local spotted gar population.
The purpose of this study is to determine if gonad analysis can be used to identify evidence of
reduced spawning of spotted gar within the UBE. Up to 20 male and 17 female spotted gar were
collected monthly from February 2011 through February 2012 from the UBE with 35 mm bar
mesh monofilament gill nets. Total length (TL; mm), weight (W; g), pre-pelvic girth (PPG;
mm), sex, and gonad weight (g) were recorded for each spotted gar collected. For females, a 10%
egg count by gonad weight was used to estimate fecundity and the diameter (mm) of 30 eggs per
ovary were measured. Based on a lack of spent ovaries, preliminary macroscopic ovarian
observations suggest that female spotted gar spawned few eggs in the UBE. Based on a sample
of spotted gar (n=9) collected from the ARB, the November 2011 mean gonadosomatic index
(GSI) of female spotted gar (n=8) in the UBE (13.2 ± 0.54) was greater than mean GSI of female
spotted gar (n=4) in the ARB (2.42 ± 1.5). Mean November 2011 spotted gar egg diameter (2.39
mm ± 0.035) in the UBE was greater than egg diameters in the ARB (1.66 mm ± 0.13). It
appears that spotted gar in the UBE maintain a large portion of their eggs throughout the year,
and although the reason is not clear, UBE spotted gar may have a reduced reproductive output.
44
Habitat influences on feeding ecology of red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus): a
comparison between shelf edge bank reefs and artificial reefs in the northern Gulf of
Mexico
Kirsten A. Simonsen*1, Kevin M. Boswell2, and James H. Cowan, Jr.1
1
Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge,
LA 70803, ksimo14@lsu.edu*; 2Department of Marine Science, Florida International University,
North Miami, FL 33181
Artificial reefs in the Gulf of Mexico are well known aggregators of reef-fish, including red
snapper (Lutjanus campechanus), which supports a valuable commercial and recreational
fishery. However, there is little known about how these reef structures function in the overall
life history of red snapper and other reef-associated species. Previous research has indicated that
little nutrition is derived directly from small low-relief artificial reefs; rather the majority of the
prey comes from surrounding soft bottom habitat. However, the Gulf of Mexico also has
approximately 3500 oil and gas platforms that act as large high relief artificial reefs that provide
substrate for the entire water column. In previous years, many of these structures had been
modified and converted into artificial reefs upon decommissioning. From a management
perspective, it is important to determine how these structures function in the ecology of red
snapper, and whether or not the conversion of decommissioned platforms is beneficial to the
associated reef fish assemblage. The goal of this study is to determine if there are differences in
the feeding ecology of red snapper between standing oil and gas platforms, and toppled
platforms designated as artificial reefs. Fish from these habitats were also contrasted with those
collected over natural reefs on the continental shelf edge. A combination of gut content analysis
and stable isotope analysis was conducted to determine trophic ecology of red snapper at the
three habitats. Preliminary results indicate that fish dominated the diets at all three sites, but that
pronounced differences exist in the contribution of major prey items by percentage dry weight
between the all three habitats. Red snapper collected from standing platforms consumed
primarily antenna codlet (Bregmaceros atlanticus), as well as squid, shrimp, and other
crustaceans. At the toppled sites red snapper consumed a large percentage of Bathyal swimming
crab (Bathynectes longispina), squid, shrimp, and other crustaceans. On the natural reef habitat
antenna codlet and lizardfish (Synodontidae) dominated diets, with only minor contribution from
other prey items. Results of the stable isotope analysis suggest that fish collected over the
standing platforms are more enriched in d15N, implying red snapper may be feeding at a higher
trophic level than the other sites, while fish collected over the toppled platforms were more
depleted in d13C, possibly indicating more contribution from benthic algae as a basal resource.
45
Fish assemblage diversity at revetted banks in the Pearl River and the response of these
assemblages to 2011 Temple Inland Fish Kill
Jose A. Vazquez*, Michael D. Kaller, and William E. Kelso
Department of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA.
jvazqu2@lsu.edu
The Pearl River has seen a significant decline in biodiversity since the 1950’s due to habitat
alterations from aggregate mining and dam construction. Similarly impaired rivers have been
found to have higher fish diversity along revetted banks, which are common habitat features
along the banks of the Pearl River where the riparian zone has been cleared for residential use.
However, revettments can also have detrimental effects on lotic ecosystems due to their
alteration of local hydrologic regimes. The objective of our study was to determine the impacts
of revetted banks and their associated rocky substrates on fish assemblage composition in the
Pearl River. We collected fishes with a DC electrofishing boat at armored and natural banks
along four developed areas located between Bradley Slough and Columbia, MS during
September and October 2011, and again between January and March 2012. Species richness and
density and their corresponding unrestricted variances were analyzed with rarefaction curves,
whereas species evenness (Simpson’s Index) and abundance (catch per unit effort, CPUE) were
analyzed with nested analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) models. Rarefaction curves indicated
species richness was greater at natural rather than revetted banks (P<0.05, Fig. 1), although
species density was not significantly different between the two bank types (P>0.05). Similarly,
ANCOVA models indicated that neither evenness (P=0.307) nor CPUE (P=0.197) differed
significantly between natural and revetted banks. On August 9, 2011, waste material from
Temple Inland’s paper mill in Bogalusa, LA was discharged into the Pearl River, causing anoxic
conditions that killed an estimated 500,000 fish downstream of the spill site. Analyses of
electrofishing data indicated that by October 2011, species richness at sites approximately 10 km
downstream from the spill did not differ significantly from sites above impacted areas (ANOVA;
P=0.389). In contrast, sites approximately 40 km downstream of the spill site still yielded
significantly fewer species than unimpacted sites in October (P<0.001), with the assemblages
dominated by threadfin shad. However, by January, fish species richness at impacted and
unimpacted sites was similar (P=0.277). These results suggest that recolonization is occurring at
a rapid pace, particularly at sites near the spill, with colonization rates related to the proximity of
source populations.
Figure 1. Rarefaction curves of species richness (with dotted-line confidence intervals) at
natural and revetted banks. The lack of continuous overlap between the confidence
intervals implies that species richness differs between the two habitat types (α=0.05)
46
Diet of red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) on natural hard-bottom banks in the
northwestern Gulf of Mexico
Brittany D. Schwartzkopf* and James H. Cowan Jr.
Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences, Louisiana State University,
Baton Rouge, LA. bschwa6@tigers.lsu.edu
The Louisiana-Texas (LATEX) shelf banks are natural hard-bottom substrates that are thought to
be one of the historic centers of abundance of economically important finfish, such as red
snapper, Lutjanus campechanus. However, little is known about red snapper life history,
including trophic dynamics, on natural hard-bottom substrates. We conducted a study on red
snapper to gather more information about their life history and behavior on the LATEX
continental shelf banks. Red snapper were collected twice per quarter from four banks on the
LATEX shelf, including Jakkula, McGrail, Bright, and East Cameron Artificial Reef Planning
Area (Fig. 1), using two 30-hook bandit rigs, two 10-hook bandit rigs, sow rigs, and five chevron
traps. Sampling began May 2011 and will continue twice per quarter through October 2013.
Stomachs were removed from each red snapper caught and severed at the esophagus and
duodenum below the pyloric sphincter. During examination, stomach contents were removed,
identified to the lowest taxonomic level, sorted, dried at 60°C, and weighed to the nearest
0.0001g. The quantification of stomach contents were determined by four methods: (1) percent
frequency of occurrence (%FO); (2) percent composition by number (%N); (3) percent
composition by weight (%W); and (4) percent index of relative importance (%IRI). For
analyses, individual red snapper stomachs were treated as a replicate. Differences in the diet of
red snapper were determined by ANOSIM, SIMPER and PERMANOVA procedures using the
PRIMER+PERMANOVA statistical package. The results of this study will determine if there
are specific prey resources available to red snapper that may serve to enhance productivity on the
LATEX shelf bank system.
Figure 1. Map of the four natural hard-bottom study sites chosen in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
The depth contour lines are given in meters.
47