Ecology and reproductive biology of blackbanded darters

 

Goal of research

The central focus of this research project is to quantify reproductive life history traits, microhabitat use, feeding habits, and other aspects of the biology of the widely distributed blackbanded darter (Percina nigrofasciata). A second component of this research is to determine whether the blackbanded darter is an important competitor or predator of endangered Okaloosa darters (Etheostoma okaloosae) where these two species co-occur.

 

Overview and key findings

 

Collaborators

  • Myra Hughey
  • Melissa Kaintz
  • Howard Jelks

 

Sources of funding

  • Department of Defense
  • Mullahy Fund for Undergraduate Research

 

Publications

  • We're working on it!

 

Pictures

 
   
Predators ate a diversity of prey. This image shows gut contents from a single bowfin. This figure shows how multivariate profile of diet of fishes from enhanced pool (B) is distinct from diet of fishes in unenhanced pools (A, C).