Research, management, recovery partnerships, & updates for the Devils Hole pupfish

Authors: Ambre Chaudoin, Jeffrey Goldstein, Kevin Wilson, John Wullschleger, Michael Bower, Olin Feuerbacher, Jennifer Gumm, Alex Jones, Michael Schwemm, Brandon Senger, Mark Hausner, John Umek

Year: 2022

Abstract

The Devils Hole pupfish (Cyprinodon diabolis) population has seen numerous highs and lows over the years. Climbing back from the brink of extinction and a record low of 35 fish in 2013, the 2022 spring and fall counts produced the highest population estimates in nearly two decades. Visual surveys, using standard methodology (SCUBA and surface counts), recorded an estimated 175 fish in spring 2022, the largest spring count since 2000 when the population was an estimated 190 fish. Fall 2022 surveys recorded 263 fish, an increase of 51% over the fall 2021 count which recorded 174 fish. This latest estimate represents the largest fall count since 2003 when the population was an estimated 297 fish, and the first time in 19 years the count has been greater than 200. Collaborative research and management currently focus on research gaps and implementation of the recently completed Devils Hole Pupfish Strategic Plan, including development of an emergency evacuation plan, genetic management plan, and other specific protocols. Additionally, the ICT is working with the Desert Research Institute on two separate projects. The first is a data synthesis project encompassing nearly 10 years of monitoring data (2011-2019) from the Devils Hole long term ecosystem monitoring plan, plus other abiotic and biotic datasets going back to the 1960s; the second is a food web study to investigate trophic dynamics within the ecosystem, using stable isotope analysis techniques for comparison with previous food web studies in Devils Hole, yielding insights into the incorporation of natural and supplemental feeding.