Desert Fishes Research and Management in Texas During 2017 Agency, university, and non-governmental organization conservation partners in Texas

Authors: Megan Bean, Gary Garret, Robert Edwards

Year: 2017 (xlix)

Abstract

continue to undertake many management, restoration, and conservation actions to benefit aquatic species and habitats in the Chihuahuan Desert in the Rio Grande and Pecos watershed areas. Extensive monitoring for fish, invertebrates, and water quality began in the Balmorhea Springs complex to establish current baselines for aquatic species and habitats. Recent genetic analysis of the Pecos Gambusia population at San Solomon Springs revealed high levels of introgression with Largespring Gambusia. Monitoring and stocking efforts continued for the Rio Grande Silvery Minnow through the Big Bend

and Lower Canyons reach of the Rio Grande. Monitoring on the Devils River continues for Devils River Minnow, Conchos Pupfish, Texas Hornshell, and salamanders. Restoration efforts along the Rio Grande near Big Bend and along Rio Grande tributaries continues to restore riparian habitats. Conservation partners met to establish the Chihuahan Desert Native Fish Conservation Area priorities and are working to establish this prioritization framework for the rest of the Rio Grande watershed.