Multi-scale habitat characteristics influence Paleback Darter occupancy and detection probability
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Abstract
Objective
The limited distribution of the Paleback Darter Etheostoma pallididorsum, which is often associated with dynamic headwater streams, makes the species vulnerable to changes in its environment in west-central Arkansas. A detailed understanding of habitat characteristics that support the species at multiple spatial scales is limited. This project assessed the relative influences of local- and broadscale habitat characteristics on Paleback Darter occupancy and detection probability.
Methods
Backpack electrofishing was performed, and a mix of in situ and remote habitat characteristics was linked to the Paleback Darter data. A single-season occupancy model was used to examine factors influencing Paleback Darter occupancy. Candidate models were ranked using Akaike's information criterion corrected for small sample sizes.
Results
A total of 158 Paleback Darters were collected at 13 sites during 35 of the 150 surveys. Paleback Darter occupancy and detection probability were estimated to be 0.26 (95% CI = 0.16–0.40) and 0.90 (95% CI = 0.75–0.96), respectively. Distance from springs was negatively related to Paleback Darter occupancy.
Conclusions
Springs appear to be a key in the Paleback Darter's life history strategy, and spring preservation is likely vital to the species’ conservation.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Multi-scale habitat characteristics influence Paleback Darter occupancy and detection probability |
| Series title | Transactions of the American Fisheries Society |
| DOI | 10.1093/tafafs/vnaf033 |
| Volume | 154 |
| Issue | 5 |
| Publication Date | August 13, 2025 |
| Year Published | 2025 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | American Fisheries Society |
| Contributing office(s) | Coop Res Unit Atlanta |
| Description | 10 p. |
| First page | 585 |
| Last page | 594 |