Captive Propagation, Reintroductions and Monitoring As Tools for Recovering Imperiled Aquatic Species in the Southeastern US

Abstract: Species recovery efforts necessarily focus on in situ actions such as habitat protection and stream restoration projects, but captive propagation and population restoration are frequently important components of endangered species recovery plans. In order to be successful in recovering rare species through captive propagation and reintroduction, it must be demonstrated that various criteria have been met. For example, reintroductions should only be attempted within the species’ historical range and appropriate available habitat must be located for efforts to proceed.  There should be genetically appropriate stocks available for use in captive propagation programs. A commitment on the part of the partner agencies to fund such projects for the necessary duration, including monitoring and genetics evaluation to demonstrate success or guide adaptive changes is essential.

For more than 25 years, Conservation Fisheries Inc. (CFI) has been involved in numerous such projects. In addition to recovering lost populations, captive propagation can provide important life history information nearly impossible to obtain through in situ studies. This includes spawning site selection, early larval life history, temperature and/or water quality tolerances all of which provide key tools for appropriately managing imperiled species populations in the wild.