Robust Redhorse Restoration in the Santee River Basin, South Carolina

In an effort to increase the long term viability of the Robust Redhorse, Moxostoma robustum, species, we were tasked with establishing a reproducing population in the Santee River Basin.  Brood stock from the Savannah River were used to stock 72,000 juveniles from 9 year classes that involved 101 independent parental crosses, from 2004 - 2013.  Fingerlings were stocked in two Broad River segments and one Wateree and Congaree River section.  Incidental electrofishing collection of adult fish began 4 years after stocking began.  Males in spawning conditions were first observed in 2008 and the first spawning triad was encountered in 2010.  To date, over 200 adults have been collected and adults in spawning condition have been encountered in every stocked segment.  Spawning behavior has been documented in two segments.  Over 150 mature adult Robust Redhorse have been observed ascending a fish ladder on the Broad River preceding spawning season.  Telemetry study has shown extensive movement and repeated seasonal use of the specific river reaches.  Reproductive success has yet to be detected.  However, a suite of 10 microsatellite markers has been developed so that parentage analysis can be conducted as needed in the future for individuals collected in the Santee River Basin.