Using remote-monitoring technologies to assess relationships between environmental conditions and reproductive behavior in Devils Hole pupfish

Authors: Ambre L Chaudoin, Olin G. Feuerbacher, Scott A. Bonar, Paul J. Barrett

Year: 2010 (xlii)

Abstract

Reproductive success of Devils Hole pupfish, Cyprinodon diabolis, has been of primary concern for some time. In particular, scientists do not know which environmental factors induce spawning in this highly endangered and notoriously difficult-to-breed species. To approach this question, over the past 12 months we have monitored spawning behavior of C. diabolis and concurrent environmental conditions within Devils Hole. An additional objective of this study has been to retask existing technologies to facilitate data collection. We have ultimately applied several technologies to provide minimally invasive, remote-monitoring capabilities. A solar-powered video surveillance system, incorporating above-water and underwater cameras, has provided continuous visual monitoring of the shallow spawning shelf within Devils Hole. Data-logging meters continuously record dissolved oxygen, temperature, and pH across this shelf, as well as ambient light at the water surface. Here, I present preliminary findings on associations between environmental factors and the mainly seasonal spawning activity of C. diabolis. I will also present some of the successes and limitations we experienced with the remote-monitoring equipment, and how these instruments might be applied as technology progresses. The final results from this study will hopefully provide information important for designing C. diabolis captive breeding programs. Further, our utilization of low-cost, off-the-shelf, and easily adaptable remote-monitoring equipment may be useful in future in situ studies of other species.