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Lowhead dams and the downstream dispersal of zebra mussels

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Abstract

In rivers of the upper Neosho basin, Kansas, USA, lowhead dams influence the downstream dispersal of zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha). We quantified density of planktonic zebra mussel larvae and abundance of recruited individuals at 13 sites in this river–reservoir system to examine potential effects of four lowhead dams on dispersal dynamics of this invasive species. Density and abundance declined downstream from reservoir sources but repeatedly increased at sites inundated by lowhead dams compared to free-flowing areas, with colonization extending 189 river-km. The pattern of zebra mussel dispersal in these rivers is best described by the downstream-march model, with lowhead dams acting as stepping stones. Even though these zebra mussel populations are likely not self-recruiting behind lowhead dams, reproduction at these dams could lead to recruitment downstream. Thus, in rivers with lowhead dams, control of zebra mussel metapopulations may not be accomplished solely by limiting source–sink dynamics from upstream infested lakes.

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Acknowledgments

Funding for this project was provided by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s (KDWPT) Aquatic Nuisance Species Program, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service through the Kansas Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plan Grant. We thank Emporia State University for providing a Graduate Student Research Grant to B. Smith and a Faculty Research and Creativity Grant to D. Edds. We thank S. Delmott, D. McCullough, and N. Holoubek for assistance in the field, D. Moore for advice on study design, B. Thomas for lab space, and M. Sundberg for microscopy training.

Conflict of interest

All of the attributed authors of this article contributed significantly to the development of this article. Publication of this article would not implicate any conflict of interest to any of the attributed authors.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biological Sciences, Emporia State University, 1 Kellogg Circle, Emporia, KS, 66801, USA

    Benjamin R. Smith & David R. Edds

  2. Emporia Research and Survey Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, P.O. Box 1525, Emporia, KS, 66801, USA

    Jason M. Goeckler

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  1. Benjamin R. Smith
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Correspondence to Benjamin R. Smith.

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Smith, B.R., Edds, D.R. & Goeckler, J.M. Lowhead dams and the downstream dispersal of zebra mussels. Hydrobiologia 755, 1–12 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-015-2211-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-015-2211-7

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