Download Aadland, L. P. (1993). Stream Habitat Types : Their Fish

Aadland, L. P. (1993). Stream Habitat Types : Their Fish Assemblages and Relationship to
Flow. North American Journal of Fisheries Management, 13, 790-806.
Habitat preferences (depth/velocity) for 114 fish species-life stage combinations (e.g., age and
reproductive state) in Minnesota. Most age-0 fishes preferred shallow pools. Ictalurids and
centrarchids preferred deep pools. Flow affected the relative abundance and characteristics of
several habitat types. Shallow pools were less abundant during high flows. Medium and deep pool
habitat area changed relatively little with changes in flow, whereas slow riffle, fast riffle, and
raceway habitat became scarce or absent during low flows. Species that depend on riffle habitats
may be considered sensitive to low flows. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (habitat). Magnidue.
Adams, A. J., Wolfe, R. K., & Layman, C. a. (2009). Preliminary Examination of How
Human-driven Freshwater Flow Alteration Affects Trophic Ecology of Juvenile Snook
(Centropomus undecimalis) in Estuarine Creeks. Estuaries and Coasts, 32(4), 819-828.
doi:10.1007/s12237-009-9156-x
Used stomach contents and stable isotope analysis (δ13C, δ15N) to examine effects of freshwater
flow alterations on the trophic ecology of juvenile common snook in creeks flowing into
Charlotte harbor, FL. Degraded sites had short, pulsing hydroperiods with concentrated overland
sheet flow caused by developed wetlands and altered drainages (roads, houses, ditches, and
berms). Channel alteration accompanied by altered flow. Degraded sites had less diverse diet for
juvenile snook (lower intraspecific trophic diversity) but had higher number of prey items.
Juvenile snook in degraded sites rely on fewer prey. Shifts in food web structure related to
altered flow regime. Quantitative? = No. Fish – feeding/trophic. Duration, frequency.
Aggus, L. R., & Lewis, S. A. (1976). ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND STANDING
CROPS OF FISHES IN PREDATOR-STOCKING-EVALUATION RESERVOIRS.
Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and
Wildlife Agencies, 131-140.
Examined relations between environmental variables and fish standing crops in study reservoirs
in 9/13 member states of SARP region. Related fluctuation in water levels, storage ratio
(residence time), and outflow volume to reservoir standing crops. High volumes of outflow and
increased water exchange rates (lower residence times) associated with increases in fish standing
crops and changes in the size structure of fish assemblages in some study reservoirs. Higher
outflow related to higher Clupeid, Sunfish, black bass, crappie, carp&catostomid, and small fish
standing crops. Other physicochemical and biological interactions important. Quantitative? =
yes. Fish – abundance. Magnitude.
Atkinson, C. L., Golladay, S. W., Opsahl, S. P., & Covich, A. P. (2009). Stream discharge
and floodplain connections affect seston quality and stable isotopic signatures in a
coastal plain stream. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 28(2), 360370. North American Benthological Society. doi:10.1899/08-102.1
Investigated the effect of flow variability and geomorphology (constrained vs unconstrainted) on
the quality (stoichiometric ratio C:N) and stable isotopic signature (d13C and d15N) of 3 seston
size classes in Ichawaynochaway Creek (5th order trib of lower Flint River, southwestern
Georgia). High flow conditions, higher seston quality from adjancent floodplain in all parts of
basin. However, during low flow, seston had higher quality (lower C:N) with less depleted d13C
and more enriched d15N signatures in the constrained than in the unconstrained portions of the
stream. Varying impact of floodplain width at low flow (flow interrelated with geomorphology).
Quantitative? =Yes. Organic Matter – Seston. Magnitude (flow variability, baseflow, flooding).
Bachman, P. M., & Rand, G. M. (2008). Effects of salinity on native estuarine fish species in
South Florida. Ecotoxicology, 17(7), 591-597. Dordrecht: Springer Science + Business
Media LA - English. doi:10.1007/s10646-008-0244-7
Examined biological performance measures (i.e., growth and survival) of estuarine fish under
varying salinity regimes that will occur as a result of the restoration of freshwater flow to the Bay.
Adverse effects of acute, abrupt salinity changes on fish survival and development due to salinity
stress. Alerations in flow alter salinity regimes with alter growth and survival of fish in estuaries.
Quantitative= no. Supporting information. Fish – Growth & Survival. Constancy, rate of change,
reversals.
Baker, T. L., & Jenning, C. A. (2005). Striped bass survival in Lake Blackshear, Georgia
during drought conditions: implications for restoration efforts in Gulf of Mexico
drainages. Environmental Biology of Fishes, 72(1), 73-84. Dordrecht: Springer SBM
LA - English. doi:10.1007/s10641-004-6585-z
Used data on the survival, habitat use, and movement patterns to assess the potential long-term
survival of fingerling striped bass in relation to inflow conditions and drought. Drought and
withdrawals caused coolwater streams to stop flowing during study. Intermittent flows caused
temperatures to rise (>27C), which caused striped bass die offs. Persistence, abundance, and sizes
of springs in this region are heavily dependent on the periodicity of droughts and the magnitude
of groundwater use. Droughts in region occur every 3 years. Intermittent stream flows cause
striped bass to not find flowing habitats or thermal refuge. Quantitative=no. Supporting
information. Fish Survival. Duration/Intermittency.
BARNES, T. K., VOLETY, A. K., CHARTIER, K., MAZZOTTI, F. J., & PEARLSTINE,
L. (2007). A HABITAT SUITABILITY INDEX MODEL FOR THE EASTERN
OYSTER (CRASSOSTREA VIRGINICA), A TOOL FOR RESTORATION OF THE
CALOOSAHATCHEE ESTUARY, FLORIDA. Journal of Shellfish Research, 26(4),
949-959. National Shellfisheries Association. doi:10.2983/07308000(2007)26[949:AHSIMF]2.0.CO;2
Habitat suitability index model (HSI) for the eastern oyster used to evaluate and compare the
effects of alternative restoration plans in southwest Florida tool by examining the impact of
freshwater inputs into the system. Included salinity, temperature, depth, substrate, and high flow
frequency. Future conditions with the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan have higher
HSI values than existing conditions or without the Comprehensive Everglades Plan. Optimal
flows for oyster 500–2500 cfs (14.15–70.79 cm) in the Caloosahatchee River result in salinities
above 5-10ppt. Flows > 4000cfs limit larval settlement. > 3 high flow (> 4000 cfs) frequencies
per month are optimal HSI. Quantitative = yes. Macroinvertebrate. Magnitude, Frequency.
Barwick, D. H., & Hudson, P. L. (1985). Food and feeding of fish in Hartwell Reservoir
Tailwater, Georgia-South Carolina. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the
Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 39, 185-193.
Determined whether fish in tailwater ate organisms entrained from reservoir or displaced from
tailwater during generation. Assessed effect of hydro generation on feeding. Hydrogeneration
increases flows from 3-11 m3/s to 665 m3/s and velocities of 1.8 m/s. Silver redhorse fed more
during generation. But, bluegill, redbreast, and green sunfish ate little during generation.
Although hydrogeneration displaces/entrains food items, less feeding occurs during
hydrogeneration. Quantitative = yes. Fish Behavior – Feeding. Magnitude, Rate of change –
Moderate High flows.
Battle, J. M., & Golladay, S. W. (2007). HOW HYDROLOGY, HABITAT TYPE, AND
LITTER QUALITY AFFECT LEAF BREAKDOWN IN WETLANDS ON THE GULF
COASTAL PLAIN OF GEORGIA. Wetlands, 27(2), 251-260. The Society of Wetland
Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2007)27[251:HHHTAL]2.0.CO;2
Assessed leaf breakdown of black gum and water tupelo in floodplain wetlands and isolated
(depressed wetlands) in relation to hydrology (drought). In drought years, moisture levels
primarily influenced breakdown of organic matter, but in years with prolonged flooding, faster
breakdown rates occurred in the wetland type and litter species with the higher nutrient levels.
Leaf breakdown rates were slower in years when there was little or no flooding compared to years
when wetlands were flooded. In years with prolonged flooding, faster breakdown rates occurred
in the floodplain wetland type and in litter species with the higher nutrient levels. Quantitative=
no. Organic Matter. Decomposition. Frequency and Duration of floods.
BATTLE, J. M., & GOLLADAY, S. W. (2001). Hydroperiod Influence on Breakdown of
Leaf Litter in Cypress-gum Wetlands. The American Midland Naturalist, 146(1), 128145. University of Notre Dame. doi:10.1674/00030031(2001)146[0128:HIOBOL]2.0.CO;2
Used litter bags to examined breakdown of cypress (Taxodium spp.) and gum (Nyssa sylvatica
var. biflora) leaves in three wetlands with different hydroperiods: (1) flooded exposed (FE; 5 mo
flooded-6 mo litter exposed), (2) multiple flooded exposed (MFE; 6 mo flooded-exposed-floodedexposed) and (3) permanently flooded (PF; 11 mo flooded). Breakdown was fastest in the MFE
wetland. Cycles of wetting and drying increased decomposition by promoting microbial activity
through aeration. Hydrologic regime influences breakdown rates and element accumulations.
Quantitative = yes. Organic Matter. Decomposition. Frequency and duration of floods.
Beasley, C. A., & Hightower, J. E. (2000). Effects of a Low-Head Dam on the Distribution
and Characteristics of Spawning Habitat Used by Striped Bass and American Shad.
Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, 129, 1316-1330.
Of 13 striped bass and 8 American shad with transmitters that migrated to the base of Quaker
Neck Dam on Neuse river, only 3 striped bass passed the structure, indicating that the dam was an
impediment to migration. During periods when telemetered fish were on spawning grounds,
discharge was above the 95% confidence interval about the historical daily mean on 21–32% of
days for striped bass and 16– 41% of days for American shad. Discharge was substantially higher
in 1997 than in 1996, and it exceeded the 95% confidence interval for 15 consecutive days when
telemetered striped bass were on the spawning grounds. Fish may have been spawning in relation
to higher discharges, which promoting some movement around low-head dam. Quantitative = no,
Fish Reproduction, Magnitude.
Bednarek, A. T., & Hart, D. D. (2005). Modifying Dam Operations To Restore Rivers:
Ecological Responses To Tennessee River Dam Mitigation. Ecological Applications,
15(3), 997-1008. doi:10.1890/04-0586
Compiled dataset of physio-chemical and benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages below 9 dams
to evaluate effects of increased minimum flows and increased dissolved oxygen modifications
due to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Reservoir Releases Im-provement Program in
1991. Dam modifications (flow & DO increases) increased richness and EPT and decreased %
tolerant taxa. Increased min flow increased abundance and richness but decreased EPT. Flow
alone appeared to have a smaller beneficial effect than the combined effects of flow and DO.
Quantitative= no. Supporting information= yes. Could easily get information for quantitative
analysis. Macroinvertebrate Abundance-Richness, Magnitude.
Benke, A. C., Chaubey, I., Ward, G. M., & Dunn, E. L. (2000). Flood pulse dynamics of an
unregulated river floodplain in the southeastern U.S. coastal plain. Ecology, 81(10),
2730-2741. doi:10.2307/177337
Floodplain inundation for Ogeechee River, Georgia. On average, >50% of the flood- plain was
inundated 15% of the time (54 d/yr) and that 100% was inundated 3.6% of the time (13 d/yr).
During a wet year, 50-100% of the floodplain was inundated for several months in winter-spring.
In dry year, >20% of the floodplain (seven times the river width) was inundated for several
months. Floodplain failed to reach 50% inundation in only 4 of 58 years. In 6 years, >50% of the
floodplain was inundated for at least 30% of the time (i.e., four months of the year). Floods of
50% inundation typically had a duration of at least 30 d. Quantitative = yes. Riparian (habitat,
floodplain inundation). Duration (high flow); Magnitude ( high flows).
Bledsoe, B. P., & Shear, T. H. (2000). VEGETATION ALONG HYDROLOGIC AND
EDAPHIC GRADIENTS IN A NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL PLAIN CREEK
BOTTOM AND IMPLICATIONS FOR RESTORATION. Wetlands, 20(1), 126-147.
The Society of Wetland Scientists. doi:10.1672/02775212(2000)020[0126:VAHAEG]2.0.CO;2
Described vegetation of swamp forest stands along Durham Creek in Beaufort County, North
Carolina, related to elevation, hydrologic, and edaphic gradients. Elevation difference of as little
as 10 cm results in 20% difference in flood duration during the growing season. Lowest elevation
sites affected the most by changes in flood duration. Species distributions affected by gradient
and differences in flood duration. Flood duration influences phsyio-chemical characteristics of
soils. Quantitative = no. Riparian Vegetation. Duration of flooding (% of growing season).
Bonvechio, T. F., & Allen, Micheal S. (2005). Relations between hydrological variables and
year-class strength of sportfish in eight Florida waterbodies. Hydrobiologia, 532(1-3),
193-207. doi:10.1007/s10750-004-1388-y
Evaluated how annual and seasonal hydrological variables were related to year-class strength of
sportfish across eight Florida waterbodies (four rivers and four lakes). Micropterus year-class
strength in rivers negatively related to spring median flow and in some cases positively related to
winter median flow rates. Lepomis year class strength in rivers was positively related to median
flow rates in the fall prior to spawning and negatively related to post-spawn fall median flow
rates. Fish recruitment combined across lakes were not related to water levels. High flows at least
once every 3 years in the fall may allow inundation of floodplain habitat, providing favorable
environmental conditions for Lepomis spp. reproduction. Used seasonal magnitudes standardized
by median flow. Jan-March = winter, April-June = spring, July-Sept =summer, Oct-December
=fall. Quantitative = no. Could access data and conduct quantitative analyses. Fish abundance.
Magnitude, Timing (Seasonality)
Bowen, Zachary H, Freeman, Mary C., & Watson, D. L. (1996). Index of Biotic Integrity
Applied to a Flow-regulated River System. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the
Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 50, 26-37.
Presents a modified Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) using small-bodied fishes in the Tallapoosa
River, Alabama. Values for IBI were lower at flow-regulated sites compared to unregulated sites,
implying that severe flow fluctuations are detrimental to stream fish assemblages.
Quantitative=Yes. Fish (IBI, diversity). Rate of change (rise rates). Magnitude. = May need to
assess hydrologic information from USGS.
Boyer, Joseph N., Fourqurean, J. W., & Jones, R. D. (1999). Seasonal and Long-Term
Trends in the Water Quality of Florida Bay (1989-1997). Estuaries, 22(2B), 417-430.
doi:10.2307/1353208
Analysis of 6 yr of monthly water quality data was performed on three distinct zones of Florida
Bay. Salinity and TP concentrations declined while turbidity increased dramatically. Salinity
declined by 5 to 13.6% due to increased freshwater flows from the Everglades. Increased runoff
may have decreased TP concentrations as input concentrations were 0.3-0.5 ,uM. Quantitative=
Yes. Nutrient/salinity. Magnitude (seasonal, annual).
Bradley, P. M., Kjerfve, B., & Morris, J. T. (1990). Rediversion Salinity Change in the
Cooper River, South Carolina: Ecological Implications. Estuaries, 13(4), 373-379.
doi:10.2307/1351782
70% reduction in freshwater discharge through the Cooper River Basin, South Carolina.
Diversion in 1985 reduced the mean flow from 442 to 130 m s s -1. Caused salinity increase of
10-14%. Expected increased dominance of the halophyte, S. alterniflora, and a progressive
exclusion of the less halotolerant species. Quantitative=Yes. Salinity. No ecological. Can be
used with HSI curves. Magnitude.
Brandt, L. A., Portier, K. M., & Kitchens, W. M. (2000). PATTERNS OF CHANGE IN
TREE ISLANDS IN ARTHUR R. MARSHALL LOXAHATCHEE NATIONAL
WILDLIFE REFUGE FROM 1950 TO 1991. Wetlands, 20(1), 1-14. The Society of
Wetland Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2000)020[0001:POCITI]2.0.CO;2
Used aerial photographs to examine size, shape, orientation, and distribution of tree
islandsnorthern Everglades wetland from 1950 and 1991. Related tree island patterns to modeled
pre- and post-drainage hydrologic patterns. Photos along the edges of the refuge where
hydroperiods are longer and depths deeper show a decrease in tree island size and in overall area.
Photo plots in the interior, where hydroperiods are shorter than they were pre-drainage, show an
increase in tree island area. Water flow reduced from 1950 to 1991. 1950 hydroperiod (range 240
to 329 days). 1991 hydroperiod (range 183 to 344 days). Loss of water flow, reduction of pulse
magnitude, shorter hydroperiod, and greater range in hydroperiod from 1950 to 1991 caused
changes in tree island coverage, orientation, and shape. Quantitative = Yes. Riparian/Wetland
Vegetation. Riparian/Wetland Vegetation. Magnitude, Duration (Range).
Browder, J. A. (1985). Relationship between pink shrimp production on the tortugas
grounds and water flow patterns in the florida everglades. Bulletin of Marine Science,
37(3), 839-856.
Relationship between freshwater levels in the Everglades National Park and landings of pink
shrimp Penaeus duorarum on the Tortugas grounds. Freshwater inputs (October-December &
July-Sept) had positive relationship to quarterly (3mo.) pink shrimp landings for 3/4 of year with
lag time of one quarter. However, inverse relationship between landings and water levels from
April -June. Quantitative=No. But could use as supporting information with discharge data.
Macroinvertebrate (abundance). Magnitude (seasonal).
Brown, L. R., Cuffney, T. F., Coles, J. F., Fitzpatrick, F., McMahon, G., Steuer, J., Bell, A.
H., et al. (2009). Urban streams across the USA: lessons learned from studies in 9
metropolitan areas. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 28(4), 10511069. doi:10.1899/08-153.1
Summarized the results from studies of the effects of urbanization on stream ecosystems in 9
metropolitan areas across the US (Boston; Raleigh; Atlanta; Birmingham; Milwaukee-Green Bay;
Denver; Dallas-Fort Worth; Salt Lake City; and Portland, Oregon). All studies included
evaluations of hydrology, physical habitat, water quality, and biota (algae, macroinver- tebrates,
fish). Responses of hydrologic, physical- habitat, water-quality, and biotic variables to
urbanization varied among metropolitan areas. Little evidence was found for resistance of
macroinvertebrate assemblages to urbanization. Benthic macroinvertebrates show more responses
to urbanization relative to algae and fishes. More correlations of urbanization and poor water
quality at high flows. Difficult to isolate effects of hydrology , water quality, or physical habitat.
Quantitative = no. Macroinvertebrate, Fish, Algae. Frequency High Flows, Magnitude, Duration
of median/high flows.
Bunn, S. E., & Arthington, A. H. (2002). Basic principles and ecological consequences of
altered flow regimes for aquatic biodiversity. Environmental Management, 30(4), 492507. Retrieved from <Go to ISI>://000177829800004
Principle 1: Flow is a major determinant of physical habitat in streams, which in turn is a major
determi- nant of biotic composition. Principle 2: Aquatic species have evolved life history
strategies primarily in direct response to the natural flow regimes. Principle 3: Maintenance of
natural patterns of longitudinal and lateral connectivity is essential to the viability of populations
of many riverine species. Quantitative = no. Conceptual.
Burcher, C L, Valett, H. M., & Benfield, E F. (2007). The land-cover cascade: Relationships
coupling land and water. ECOLOGY, 88(1), 228-242. doi:10.1890/00129658(2007)88{[}228:TLCRCL]2.0.CO;2
Measured hydrologic, geomorphic, erosional, and substrate variables and biotic responses
associated with land- use disturbance in third- and fourth-order streams in the Blue Ridge in
western North Carolina. Landuse effects stream flow, which effects other elements and biota.
Hydrologic variables were not present in cascades for fish models. Agriculture negatively
affected rating curve (rate of change) slope which decreased substrate size which increased
Macroinvertebrate density and Collector Filterer density. Baseflow discharge negatively affected
midge density. The effect of landuse and hydrology are complicated by factors and interrelations.
Hard to tease apart relationships. Quantitative = no. Fish, Macroinvertebrate Abundance. Rate of
Change, Magnitude (Baseflow).
Burcher, Chris L, & Benfield, E F. (2006). Physical and biological responses of streams to
suburbanization of historically agricultural watersheds. Journal of the North American
Benthological Society, 25(2), 356-369. North American Benthological Society.
doi:10.1899/0887-3593(2006)25[356:PABROS]2.0.CO;2
Estimated hydrological, geomorphological, erosional, and depositional (i.e., substrate) variables,
and fish and macroinvertebrate metrics 3rd and 4th order streams of western NC influenced by
agriculture and sub-urbanization. No major relationships hydrologic variables to fish or
macroinvertebrates. Erosional metrics explained most variation. Quantitative=no. Fish,
Macroinvertebrate Diversity. Rate of Change, Magnitude (Baseflow, Stormflow).
Burke, M. K., King, S. L., Gartner, D., & Eisenbies, M. H. (2003). VEGETATION, SOIL,
AND FLOODING RELATIONSHIPS IN A BLACKWATER FLOODPLAIN
FOREST. Wetlands, 23(4), 988-1002. The Society of Wetland Scientists.
doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2003)023[0988:VSAFRI]2.0.CO;2
Evaluated relationships between soils, hydroperiod, and plant community structure on the
floodplain of the Coosawhatchie River, SC. Flooding intensity (duration) as well as soil physical
and chemical characteristics, can affect tree species distributions (species composition) in
blackwater river forests. Quantitaive =no, Riparian Vegetation. Duration (floods), Magnitude.
Carmichael, J. T., Haeseker, S. L., & Hightower, J. E. (1998). Spawning Migration of
Telemetered Striped Bass in the Roanoke River, North Carolina. Transactions of the
American Fisheries Society, 127, 286-297.
Estimate the timing and duration of the upriver spawning migration of striped bass to evaluate
whether a short-term fluctuation in temperature or flow would alter the distribution of telemetered
fish on the spawning grounds. Striped bass remained on the spawning grounds during a short-term
temperature decrease of about 4C (over 5 d) and an experimental increase in flow from about 190
to 390 m3/s (over 1 d). Quantiative=yes, Fish Behavior/Reproduction. Rate of Change,
Magnitude.
Casper, A. F., Dixon, B., Earls, J., & Gore, J. A. (2011). Linking a spatially explicit
watershed model (SWAT) with an in-stream fish habitat model (PHABSIM): a case
study of setting minimum flows and levels in a low gradient, sub-tropical river. River
Research and Applications, 27(3), 269-282. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell LA - English.
doi:10.1002/rra.1355
Used a Soil andWater Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for the Hillsborough River, FL to
produce data for use in a Physical HABitat SIMulation (PHABSIM) model of the same river.
Coupling of models allowed development long-term discharge data in ungauged river systems
based on watershed characteristics and precipitation records. Resolution depends on DEM
coarseness. Conceptual/Hydrologic modelling. Quantiative = no.
Chadwick, M. a, Dobberfuhl, D. R., Benke, A. C., Huryn, A. D., Suberkropp, K., & Thiele,
J. E. (2006). Urbanization affects stream ecosystem function by altering hydrology,
chemistry, and biotic richness. Ecological applications : a publication of the Ecological
Society of America, 16(5), 1796-807. Retrieved from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17069372
Examined leaf-litter decomposition, fungal biomass, and macroinvertebrate biomass in litter bags
in 18 tributaries of the St. Johns River, FL to evaluate influence of urbanization. Land use ranged
from 0% to 66% total impervious area (TIA). Rates of litter mass loss increased with impervious
surfaces to levels of 30–40% and then decreased as impervious surfaces exceeded 40%. Flow
regime, snail biomass, snail and total invertebrate richness, and metal and nutrient content
affected litter breakdown rates. Quantiative = yes. Organic Matter (Decomposition),
Macroinvertebrates (Abundance, Diversity). Magnitude.
Champeau, T. R., Stevens, P. L., & Blewett, D. A. (2009). Comparison of Fish Community
Metrics to Assess Long-Term Changes and Hurricane Impacts at Peace River, Florida.
Florida Scientist, 72(4), 289-309.
Extreme flooding and hypoxia after 3 major hurricanes in 2004 affected species composition, but
community substantially recovered by 2006. 4 non-native established since 1991. Two nonnatives that established prior to 2004, decreased. Quantitative= No. But could be used as
supporting information if hydrologic data is available. Fish (abundance, diversity). Magnitude,
Duration (flooding).
Chapman, F. a, & Carr, S. H. (1995). Implications of early life stages in the natural history
of the Gulf of Mexico sturgeon, Acipenser oxyrinchus de sotoi. Environmental Biology
of Fishes, 43(4), 407-413. doi:10.1007/BF00001178
Tracking of Gulf of Mexico sturgeon Acipenser oxyrhychus desotoi in the Suwannee River,
Florida. Peak numbers moved into the river in March and April, corresponding to high river flows
and temperatures of 14.8-17.2 C. Sturgeon remained in the river in very localized areas in
summer near springs until water temperatures dropped to 20 C in the fall. Quantitative=No. Fis
(behavior/movement). Magnitude, Timing.
Chick, J. H., Ruetz, C. R., & Trexler, J. C. (2004). SPATIAL SCALE AND ABUNDANCE
PATTERNS OF LARGE FISH COMMUNITIES IN FRESHWATER MARSHES OF
THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES. Wetlands, 24(3), 652-664. The Society of Wetland
Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2004)024[0652:SSAAPO]2.0.CO;2
Examined variation in the abundance and community structure of large fishes in Everglades
marshes to determine if variation was related to hydroperiod, water depth, floating mat volume,
and vegetation density. Abundance of several fishes decreased significantly through time and
covaried with the number of days post-dry-down. Variation in community structure through time
that correlated with the number of days post-dry-down. High variability and low population
levels in this region likely reflect more frequent and extreme dry-down events that Taylor Slough
experiences compared to Shark River Slough and WCA-3A. Dry-Downs also have extreme
effects on water vegetation (mats). Quantitative=yes. Fish (Abundance), Aquatic macrophyte
(abundance). Duration (Intermittency, hydroperiod), Magnitude (water level).
Churchel, M. A., & Batzer, D. P. (2006). Recovery of Aquatic Macroinvertebrate
Communities from Drought in Georgia Piedmont Headwater Streams. The American
Midland Naturalist, 156(2), 259-272. University of Notre Dame. doi:10.1674/00030031(2006)156[259:ROAMCF]2.0.CO;2
Six headwater streams in the Georgia Piedmont (Upper Oconee River watershed) were selected
and paired based on similarities in substrate structure. Each pair consisted of a stream that dried
completely during the drought and one that retained at least some surface water. All streams
followed the same pattern of drought recovery, with a rapid recolonization period following the
onset of surface flow. Community compositions were initially similar in most streams, but after
15 d each stream began to develop unique recovery patterns. Presence nor absence of residual
water nor substrate composition significantly influenced drought recovery. Quantitative= Yes.
Macroinvertebrate (abundance, diversity). Duration (Intermittency, Drought).
Conner, W. H., Mihalia, I., & Wolfe, J. (2002). TREE COMMUNITY STRUCTURE AND
CHANGES FROM 1987 TO 1999 IN THREE LOUISIANA AND THREE SOUTH
CAROLINA FORESTED WETLANDS. Wetlands, 22(1), 58-70. The Society of Wetland
Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2002)022[0058:TCSACF]2.0.CO;2
Paired plots were established across a soil moisture gradient (dry, periodically flooded, flooded)
in three forested wetland watersheds in LA and SC in 1986–1987. Flooded sites in both states
were dominated by water tupelo (Nyssa aquatica) and baldcypress (Taxodium distichum).
Overall trend in density in both states was flooded > periodically flooded > dry. Greatest changes
in tree density occurred in areas with water level fluctuation and wind storm damage. Flooded
sites had the greatest basal area, and periodically flooded and dry sites had similar basal areas.
Mortality rates in LA and SC were low (2%/year) in areas not altered hydrologically. Annual
mortality in LA plots with increased water levels rose from 4% in 1987 to 16% in 1997.
Quantitative=No. Riparian/wetland vegetation (diversity, mortality). Frequency, Duration
(Floods).
Coomer, C. E., Holder, D. R., & Swanson, C. D. (1977). A comparison of the diets of
redbreast sunfish and spotted sucker in a coastal plain stream. Proceedings of the
Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 31,
587-596.
Compared diets of redbreast sunfish Lepomis auritus and spotted sucker Minytrema melanops in
the Satilla River, Georgia. Hypothesized that low flow periods could cause competition between
these species. Winter &summer had high flows while spring had moderate flows and fall low
flows. High selection for chironomids in the winter, spring, and summer would be offset
somewhat by the apparent increased total food supply at higher flows. Chironomids were less
selected for in the fall although they did contribute to the diet overlap. No relationship was found
between invertebrate prey density and flow and the authors therefore concluded that there is more
prey available to both species during high flow than low flow (i.e., more area covered in water
means more prey organisms at a given density). Quantitative=No. But could be related to
discharge information. Fish (diet). Macroinvertebrate (drift). Magnitude (seasonal).
Copeland, J. R., Orth, Donald J, & Palmer, G. C. (2006). Smallmouth Bass Management in
the New River , Virginia : A Case Study of Population Trends with Lessons Learned.
Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and
Wildlife Agencies, 60, 180-187.
Examined population changes in Smallmouth bass subsequent to the implementation of a 279- to
356-mm protected slot limit in 1987. The New River smallmouth bass fishery is currently
managed with a 356- to 508-mm protected slot limit, while continuing harvest of numerous bass <
356 mm. Provides data for SMB YOY CPUE in relation to July flow on New River. SMB YOY
abundance peaks at intermediate flows. Not too wet – Not too dry. Quantitative= Yes. Fish
(Abundance). Magnitude (July Flow).
CUFFNEY, T. F., & WALLACE, J. B. (1989). DISCHARGE-EXPORT RELATIONSHIPS
IN HEADWATER STREAMS - THE INFLUENCE OF INVERTEBRATE
MANIPULATIONS AND DROUGHT. JOURNAL OF THE NORTH AMERICAN
BENTHOLOGICAL SOCIETY, 8(4), 331-341. doi:10.2307/1467496
Studied role of discharge and macroinvertebrates in coarse and fine particular organic matter
(FPOM and CPOM) transport in 3 headwater streams in appalachians of NC. Maximum
discharge was only disharge parameter related to FPOM transport. FPOM export was constant
across years for streams without macroinvertbrate manipulations despite the occurrence of
drought. Discharge and CPOM export relations were not as strong nor as consistent as those for
FPOM. CPOM export was very sensitive to timing of CPOM inputs and storms (e.g., 78 to 88%
of CPOM export during Year 2 occurred during a single fall storm). Consequently, CPOM
export-discharge relationships differed not only among streams but also between years and did
not show treatment effects. Quantitative = Yes. Organic Matter (Export). Magnitude (Storm
flow), Frequency (storm events).
Cull, R., & Jennings, C. A. (2007). EFFECTS OF RIVER DISCHARGE ON ABUNDANCE
AND INSTANTANEOUS GROWTH OF AGE-0 CARPSUCKERS IN THE OCONEE
RIVER , GEORGIA , USA y. River Research and Applications, 1025(June), 1016-1025.
doi:10.1002/rra
Oconee River in middle Georgia, U.S.A., has been regulated by the Sinclair Dam since 1953.
Investigated the relationship between abundance and growth of age-0 carpsuckers to river
discharge in the Oconee River. Regression models were used to assess whether 12 river discharge
categories (e.g. peak, low, seasonal flows) influenced age-0 carpsucker abundance or
instantaneous growth. Age-0 carpsucker abundance neg related to number of days > 85 cms.
Growth was positively related to summer river discharge. Moderate flows during spawning and
rearing are important for producing strong-year classes of carpsuckers. River discharge is variable
among years, with suitable flows for strong year-classes of carpsuckers occurring every few
years. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (Abundance, Growth). Magnitude (Seasonal), Duration
(Moderate-High Flows).
Davis, J. R. (1971). The spawning behavior, fecundity rates, and food habits of the redbreast
sunfish in southeastern North Carolina. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the
Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 25, 556-560.
Flow at USGS gage in South River, NC were constant through spawning seasons May – July.
Redbreast prefer to spawn in stable conditions at velocity of 0.59 feet/second. Quantitative= No.
Fish (reproduction). Constancy. Magnitude.
Davis, S. E., Cable, J. E., Childers, D. L., Coronado-Molina, C., Day, J. W., Hittle, C. D.,
Madden, C. J., et al. (2004). Importance of Storm Events in Controlling Ecosystem
Structure and Function in a Florida Gulf Coast Estuary. Journal of Coastal Research,
204(204), 1198-1208. doi:10.2112/03-0072R.1
Investigated ecological effects (physical, chemical, and biological attributes) of intra- and interannual variability in freshwater flow through Taylor Creek in southeastern Everglades National
Park. Quantifying effects of 3 events (Winter storm 1996, Tropical storm Harvey 1999, and
Hurricane Irene 1999) ranging in duration, amount of precipitation, storm intensity, wind
direction on the hydraulic connectivity, nutrient and sediment dynamics, and vegetation structure.
Short-term events can account for a substantial proportion of the annual flux of freshwater and
materials between the mangrove zone and Florida Bay. Storm events cause positive discharge but
wind and flux from bay cause negative discharges – results in fluctuations in salinity and nutrient
levels and mangrove litter fall. Quantitative = No. Nutrient, Salinity, Estuary vegetation
(abundance, turnover). Magnitude, Duration (Storm Events).
Dicenzo, V. J., Duval, M. C., Fisheries, I., & Road, T. J. (2002). Importance of Reservoir
Inflow in Determining White Bass Year-Class Strength in Three Virginia Reservoirs.
North American Journal of Fisheries Management, 22, 620-626.
Examined relationship between spring inflows and the year-class strength of white bass Morone
chrysops was examined in three main-stem Virginia reservoirs. In Claytor Lake, strong yearclasses were produced in years of high spring inflows. IN Kerr and Leesville Lake, April inflows
were also positively related to the year-class strength. In all reservoirs, poor or missing yearclasses were most common during years with low flow. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (Abundance).
Magnitude (Seasonal).
Dunson, W. A., Paradise, C. J., & Van Fleet, R. L. (1997). Patterns of Water Chemistry and
Fish Occurrence in Wetlands of Hydric Pine Flatwoods. Journal of Freshwater Ecology,
12(4), 553-565.
Fish and water sampling in wetlands of Myakka River, Florida. Wetlands in hydric flatwoods &
connected with other wetlands during high rainfall. Differences in ion concentration among
wetlands due to differing degrees of isolation from surface water flow. The most isolated
wetlands had the lowest specific conductance, shortest hydroperiods, and the greatest proportion
of volume derived from rainwater rather than surface water. Differences in cation concentration in
wet/dry seasons. Isolated wetlands differed in fish assemblage patterns. Quantitative = No. Fish
(presence). Duration. Frequency (pulses).
Dutterer, Andrew C., & Allen, Micheal S. (2008). Spotted Sunfish Habitat Selection at
Three Florida Rivers and Implications for Minimum Flows. Transactions of the
American Fisheries Society, 137(2), 454-466. doi:10.1577/T07-039.1
Evaluated patterns of habitat selection by adult and juvenile spotted sunfish and related them to
simulated declines in river stage at three southwestern Florida rivers (Anclote, Little Manatee, and
Manatee rivers). Stage related to availability of structural complexity. Our model simulations
indicated that 0.3-m reductions in average daily river stage could reduce habitat availability for
spotted sunfish by 20–70% across systems. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (Habitat Suitability).
Magnitude (Stage).
Fausch, K D. (2008). A paradox of trout invasions in North America. Biological Invasions,
10(5), 685-701. Dordrecht: Springer Science + Business Media LA - English.
Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are able to displace native cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus
clarkii) in the inland western US, but are themselves displaced by nonnative rainbow trout (O.
mykiss) in the southeastern US. Hypothesis is that an interaction among zoogeography,
evolutionary history, and environmental resistance from the natural flow regimes can account for
this paradox. Due to their evolutionary history, the native species are poorly adapted to the
natural disturbance regime at the southern limit of their ranges, but the nonnative species are
preadapted by chance due to theirs. Brook trout are better adapted to cope with the winter low
flow—summer snowmelt flow regime of the southern Rocky Mountains than cutthroat trout.
Likewise, rainbow trout are better adapted to the winter flood—summer low flow regime of the
southern Appalachians (Fig. 3B) than are brook trout. Quantitaive = No. Conceptual. Fish
(Demographics). Magnitude (CV), Timing, Duration.
Fausch, Kurt D., Taniguchi, Y., Nakano, S., Grossman, Gary D., & Townsend, C. R. (2001).
Flood Disturbance Regimes Influence Rainbow Trout Invasion Success Among Five
Holarctic Regions. Ecological Applications, 11(5), 1438-1455. doi:10.1890/10510761(2001)011[1438:FDRIRT]2.0.CO;2
Evaluated the hypothesis that environmental resistance from flood disturbances that wash away
trout fry strongly influence invasion success of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Analysis of
hydrologic regimes for eight rivers each in the native range, highly successful (South- ern
Appalachians) to moderate invasions, or failed invasions showed that winter flooding and summer
low flows in Pacific Coast rivers that favor spring emergence of rainbow trout were closely
matched by Southern Appalachian flow regimes. In contrast, the other three regions had spring or
summer flooding that hampered rainbow trout recruitment to different degrees, and winter low
flows. Rainbow trout invasion success was best explained by a match between timing of fry
emergence and months of low flood probability. Quantitative = No. Conceptual. Fish
(Demographics). Timing (Flood), Frequency (Probability of Flooding).
FITZHUGH, T. W., & RICHTER, B. D. (2004). Quenching Urban Thirst: Growing Cities
and Their Impacts on Freshwater Ecosystems. BioScience, 54(8), 741-754. American
Institute of Biological Sciences. doi:10.1641/00063568(2004)054[0741:QUTGCA]2.0.CO;2
Demonstrate the loss of ecosystems services but positive trends in solutions in water resource use
through case studies of water resource development in and around five large urban areas: Los
Angeles, Phoenix,New York, San Antonio, and Atlanta. Atlanta = Problem: fast rate of
population growth and water use. Most water comes from Chattahoochee River, Lake Lanier, and
Etowah Reservoir. A major concern is that increased water withdrawals in the Atlanta area will
markedly decrease low flows in the down- stream Apalachicola River, thereby affecting the
estuary. Reducing water use through efficient measures and restricting water use during droughts
will benefit river systems, especialy Apalachicola. Quantitative=NO. Conceptual.
Flinders, C. A., & Hart, D. D. (2009). EFFECTS OF PULSED FLOWS ON NUISANCE
PERIPHYTON GROWTHS IN RIVERS : A MESOCOSM STUDY. Water,
1330(March), 1320-1330. doi:10.1002/rra
Constant flows and elevated nutrient loads contributed to high nuisance levels of periphyton in
the Jackson River below Gathright Dam. Restoration apporach: use pulsed flows to remove
algae. Increased flows from 20 cm/s to 150 cm/s or greater decreased chlorphyll a, degreased
AFMD, and increased % Org Matter using streamside channels and periphyton on tiles. Also >
150 cms altered community compostion. Need 100 cm/s of near bed velocities to reduce algae.
So discharge of 30–90 cms would be required to produce a near-bed velocity exceeding 100 cm/s.
Threshold: 10X increase from median flow required in the Jackson River to remove algae.
Quantitative =Yes. Algae/Periphyton (Abundance, Diversity). Magnitude (High Flow=10XM).
Flowers, H. J., Pine III, W. E., Dutterer, A C, Johnson, K. G., Ziewitz, J. W., Allen, M S, &
Parauka, F. M. (2009). Spawning Site Selection and Potential Implications of Modified
Flow Regimes on Viability of Gulf Sturgeon Populations. TRANSACTIONS OF THE
AMERICAN FISHERIES SOCIETY, 138(6), 1266-1284. doi:10.1577/T08-144.1
Documented Gulf sturgeon spawning site selection in the Apalachicola River and then evaluated
the relationship between river stage and the available spawning habitat at these sites. River
discharges of less than 142 m3/s at Jim Woodruff Lock and Dam significantly reduced the
spawning habitat available to Gulf sturgeon at all known spawning sites. Habitat Suitability
Curves of Spawning location and elevation of burial depths of eggs show discharge needed. HS
curves peak at intermediate flows and decrease dramatically with decreasing flows and decrease
gradually with higher flow levels. Quantitative= Yes. Theorhetical. Withdrawal. Fish
(Recruitment/Reproduction Habitat). Magnitude.
Freeman, Mary C. (1995). Movements by Two Small Fishes in a Large Stream. Copeia, 2,
361-367.
Movements of adult blackbanded darters Percina nigrofasciata and juvenile redbreast sunfish
Lepomis auritus Ichawaynochaway Creek, Flint River (Apalachicola River) system, GA.
Relatively long movements (200-400 m). At least 40% of fish movements were not associated
with high flows. 60% were associated with high flows? Quantitative = No. Fish
(behavior/movement). Magnitude (high flows).
Freeman, Mary C., & Crance, J. H. (1993). Evaluating impacts of stream flow alteration on
warmwater fishes. Proceedings of the 1993 Georgia Water Resources Conference (pp.
303-305).
Summarizes IFIM approach, current research, limitations of transeferability, invertebrate habitat
requirements, and recommendations. Quantitative = No. Conceptual.
Freeman, M. C., Bowen, Z. H., Bovee, K. D., & Irwin, E. R. (2001). Flow and habitat effects
on juvenile fish abundance in natural and altered flow regimes. ECOLOGICAL
APPLICATIONS, 11(1), 179-190. doi:10.1890/10510761(2001)011{[}0179:FAHEOJ]2.0.CO;2
Quantified YOY fish abundance during 4 years in relation to hydrologic and habitat variability in
two segments of the Tallapoosa River. At unregulated site, YOY abundance correlated with
availability of shallow-slow habitat in summer and persistence of shallow-slow and shallow-fast
habitat in spring. Additionally, abundances were negatively correlated with 1-h maximum flow in
summer. At the flow- regulated site, YOY abundances correlated with persistence of shallowwater habitats in spring and summer. Flow regulation reduced median flows during spring and
summer reduced availability of shallow-water habitats comparable to the unregulated site.
However, habitat persistence was severely reduced by flow fluctuations resulting from pulsed
water releases for peak-load power generation. Quantitative=Maybe. Supporting information.
Fish (Abundance). Magnitude, Timing, Duration (Low, High flows).
FREEMAN, M. C., & GROSSMAN, G. D. (1993). EFFECTS OF HABITAT
AVAILABILITY ON DISPERSION OF A STREAM CYPRINID. ENVIRONMENTAL
BIOLOGY OF FISHES, 37(2), 121-130. doi:10.1007/BF00000587
Dispersion of rosyside dace was not significantly correlated with the total amount of suitable
habitat available to foraging, but during summer, corresponded to the availability of deposi- tional
areas adjacent to rapid currents. Foragers aggregated in eddies or depositional areas during high
stream discharge in July, and shifted out of depositional areas when current velocities declined
from July to September. Flow influences fish habitat use. Quantitative=NO. Fish (behavior).
Magnitude.
Freeman, M. C., & Marcinek, P. A. (2006). Fish assemblage responses to water withdrawals
and water supply reservoirs in piedmont streams. Environmental Management, 38(3),
435-450. Retrieved from <Go to ISI>://000239657000009
Evaluated effects of altering flows via surface water withdrawals and instream reservoirs on
stream fish assemblages (Piedmont, Georgia). Richness of fluvial specialists averaged about 3
fewer species downstream from reservoirs. Richness declined as withdrawal rate increased above
about 0.5 to 1 of the 7Q10-equivalent of water. Withdrawal. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (Richness).
Magnitude (Low flow, 7Q10).
Furse, J. B., Davis, L. J., & Bull, L. A. (1996). Habitat Use and Movements of Largemouth
Bass Associated with Changes in Dissolved Oxygen and Hydrology in Kissimmee River
, Florida. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of the
Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 50, 12-25.
Movement by largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides in relation to water level changes in the
Kissimmee River, Florida. During high flow, fish moved in vegetated areas along channel
margins and into floodplain with inundated terrestrial vegetation. Largemouth bass returned to
channels and canals in response to low dissolved oxygen concentrations or receding water levels.
Quantitative = No. Fish (behavior/migration). Magnitude (flood pulses).
Gage, M. S., Spivak, A., & Paradise, C. J. (2004). Effects of Land Use and Disturbance on
Benthic Insects in Headwater Streams Draining Small Watersheds North of Charlotte,
NC. Southeastern Naturalist, 3(2), 345-358. Humboldt Field Research Institute.
doi:10.1656/1528-7092(2004)003[0345:EOLUAD]2.0.CO;2
Determined how land use and disturbance affected benthic insects in 9 streams: collected data on
insect diversity, chemistry, and physical habitat. Insect communities were more diverse in low
disturbance streams than in urbanized streams. Sensitive taxa were found in forested watershed
streams, but were nonexistent in extensively urbanized watersheds. Irregular disturbance: 0 flow
and sewer line. High disturbance: flashy flow and 0 flow. Abundance and Diversity: Low
disturbance > Irregular disturbance > high disturbance. Urbanization. Quantitative=No.
Macroinvertebrate (Abundance, Diversity). Magnitude (CV), Duration (intermittency).
Gibson, C. A., Meyer, J. L., Poff, N L, Hay, L. E., & Georgakakos, A. (2005). Flow regime
alterations under changing climate in two river basins: implications for freshwater
ecosystems. River Research and Applications, 21(8), 849-864. Chichester: John Wiley &
Sons Ltd LA - English.
Examined impacts of future climate scenarios on flow regimes and predicted how changes might
affect river ecosystems, 2 case studies: Cle Elum River,Washington, and Chattahoochee–
Apalachicola River Basin, Georgia and Florida. For Apalachicola: dam construction, future
climate, and future demand decreased the flow variability. Minimum flows were lower under
future climate scenarios. Could decrease the connectivity of the channel and the floodplain,
decrease habitat availability, and potentially lower the ability of the river to assimilate wastewater
treatment plant effluent. Quantitative=Potentially, which supporting information. See Gibson
Dissertation. Theoretical. Fish (Habitat). Magnitude (minimum flows, CV).
Grabowski, T. B., & Isely, J. J. (2007). Effects of Flow Fluctuations on the Spawning
Habitat of a Riverine Fish. Southeastern Naturalist, 6(3), 471-478. doi:10.1656/15287092(2007)6[471:EOFFOT]2.0.CO;2
Monitored water levels and environmental conditions at the nest sites of Moxostomu robusium
(Robust Red- horse) on gravel bar in the Savannah River. During 2005 spawning season, over
50% of the observed nest sites were either completely dewatered or left in near zero-flow
conditions for several days. Quantitative= Potentially. Fish (Reproduction, Habitat). Magnitude
(CV). Rate of Change (Reversals).
Graham, R. J., & Orth, Donald J. (1986). Effects of Temperature and Streamflow on Time
and Duration of Spawning by Smallmouth Bass. Transactions of the American Fisheries
Society, 115(July 2011), 693-702.
Influence of water temperature and discharge variables on the time and duration of spawning by
smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieui were evaluated in New River, VA. . Frequency
distributions of spawning dates similar to the timing of hydrologic events. Spawning activities
interrupted by flooding in June and resumed when water levels were receding. Mean daily water
temperature explained most of the variation among spawning groups. But spawning occurs at
receeding limb of spring flooding. Fluctuations in flow influenced spawning. Quantitative=No.
Fish (Reproduction). Magnitude, Timing (Floodings), Rate of Change (Rise/fall Rate, Reversals).
Grant, G. C., & Olney, J. E. (1991). Distribution of Striped Bass Marone saxatilis (
Walbaum) Eggs and Larvae in Major Virginia Rivers. Fishery Bulletin, 89(2), 187-193.
Spawning location, indicated by egg collections, displaced upstream in the James River in
response to drought (i.e., low flow conditions). Other streams in the study were not significantly
affected by the drought and interannual variation in spawning location was low.
Quantitative=No. Fish (reproduction). Magnitude (low flow).
Grossman, G D, Ratajczak, R E, Crawford, M., & Freeman, M. C. (1998). Assemblage
organization in stream fishes: Effects of environmental variation and interspecific
interactions. ECOLOGICAL MONOGRAPHS, 68(3), 395-420. doi:10.2307/2657245
Assessed importance of environmental variation (flow), intraspecific competition, and predator
abundance on fish assemblage structure and microhabitat use in Coweeta Creek, NC. Hydrologic
period (pre, during, or post-drought) explained most variation in habitat availability. Number of
species significantly higher during drought than pre-drought. Drought little effect on benthic
species but sig increase on water column species. Number of high flow events driving variation
(lower during drought) (> 2.1cms, recurrece interval of 1 year (Bankfull flow) Variability in mean
and peak flows had more influence on fish assemblage structure than density-dependent
interactions. Quantitative=Yes – more info, see Grossman et al. 2010. Fish (abundance,
richness). Frequency (bankfull flows). Magnitude (mean annual, CV).
Grossman, Gary D, Ratajczak, Robert E, Farr, M. D., Wagner, C. M., & Petty, J. T. (2010).
Why There Are Fewer Fish Upstream. American Fisheries Society Symposium, 73, 6381.
Observed increased diversity produced by species immigrating upstream during periodic droughts
(1985–1988, 1999–2002) and a highly significant positive relationship (r2= 0.77) between
drought (Palmerindex) and Shannon-Weiner diversity. Resident fish size smaller during drought.
Critical velocity measurements showed that residents could tolerate faster water velocities than
drought immigrants. Upstream velocities in nondrought years were faster than those in some
downstream sites. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (Abundance, Diversity, Size). Magnitude (summer).
Hale, M. M., & Bayne, D. R. (1982). Effects of water level fluctuations on the littoral
macroinvertebrates of west point reservoir. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of
the Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 34, 175-180.
Benthic invertebrate communities experience exposure during annual drawdowns with adjacent
communities that are not exposed in West Point Reservoir, Chattahoochee River. Following reinundation, fewer organisms in the exposed areas during drawdown compared to inundated areas
for up to 2 months later. After 4 months of inundation, no difference in exposed or continuallyinundated areas. Higher percentage of sand and a lower percentage of silt and clay in the annually
exposed zone. Fluctuation of the water level leads to lower production of insects. Quantitative=
Yes. Macroinvertebrate (abundance). Magnitude. Constancy.
Hall, J. W., Smith, T. I. J., & Lamprecht, S. D. (1991). Movements and Habitats of
Shortnose Sturgeon, Acipenser brevirostrum, in the Savannha River. Copeia, 1991(3),
695-702.
Upriver spawning migrations occurred from mid-February to mid-March when temps ranged
from 9-12 C. Downstream migrations began in mid-March with all adult shortnosed sturgeon
leaving the freshwater reaches by early May. The freshwater/saltwater boundary region of the
river was utilized by adult and juvenile sturgeon during both fall and winter. Probable nursery
area for juvenile shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon was identified, approximately 2-5 km downriver
of the freshwater/saltwaterboundary region. No relations to flow but may be important in flow –
salinity relationships. Quantitative = No.
Hartman, K. J., & Logan, M. N. (2010). Movement and Habitat use by Transplanted Adult
Brook Trout in an Appalachian Headwater Stream. Northeastern Naturalist, 17(3), 357372. doi:10.1656/045.017.0302
Overall, found stream discharge did not affect habitat use. However, under low discharge levels, a
negative relationship between discharge and pool use was detected, suggesting restriction to pool
habitats under low flows. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (Behavior/Movement). Magnitude
(minimum, baseflows)
Helms, B S, Schoonover, J E, & Feminella, J W. (2009). Assessing influences of hydrology,
physicochemistry, and habitat on stream fish assemblages across a changing landscape.
Journal of the American Water Resources Association, 45(1), 157-169. Middleburg:
American Water Resources Association (AWRA) LA - English. doi:10.1111/j.17521688.2008.00267.x
Evaluated the impact of land cover on fish assemblages by examining associations between
stream hydrology, physicochemistry, instream habitat, fish responses in 18 streams in Lower
Piedmont of Georgia (Chattahoochee). Higher frequency of spate flows with increasing
impervious cover. Fish species diversity, richness, and biotic integrity were lower in streams with
high frequency of spate flows. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (Diversity). Urbanization. Frequency
(High Flows).
Helms, Brian S., Schoonover, Jon E., & Feminella, Jack W. (2009). Seasonal variability of
landuse impacts on macroinvertebrate assemblages in streams of western Georgia,
USA. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 28(4), 991-1006.
doi:10.1899/08-162.1
Examined the influence of land use on macroinvertebrate assemblages and environmental
conditions in 18 streams Piedmont ecoregion in Georgia (Chattahoochee). Spate flow frequency
related to impervious surfaces. Lowest macroinvertebrate biotic integrity (species diversity, taxon
richness, biological stream condition index) found in high % IS watersheds. Macroinvert
variables primarily related to physiochemical and benthic habitat rather than hydrological
variables. Macro biomass negatively related to duration of flows (3xM) and pos related to
frequency of flows (5xM). Density pos related to duration of flows (3xM). Benthic Integrity
positive related to duration of flows (7xM). Quantitative = Yes. Macroinvertebrate (Abundance,
Diversity). Frequency (5xM flows), Duration (3xM and 7xM flows).
Hendrix, A. N., & Loftus, W. F. (2000). DISTRIBUTION AND RELATIVE ABUNDANCE
OF THE CRAYFISHES PROCAMBARUS ALLENI (FAXON) AND P. FALLAX
(HAGEN) IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA. Wetlands, 20(1), 194-199. The Society of
Wetland Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2000)020[0194:DARAOT]2.0.CO;2
Crayfish species relative abundance varied with hydroperiod (length of inundation). Procambarus
fallax relative abundance was highest in sites characterized by long hydro- period and prolonged
inundation, whereas P. alleni (everglades crayfish) was the lone species in short hydroperiod
marshes. Quantiative =Yes. Macroinvertebrate (Abundance, Presence). Duration
(Flooding/Inundation), Water Levels.
Holcomb, D., & Wegener, W. (1971). Hydrophytic changes related to lake fluctuations as
measured by point transects. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern
Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, (April), 570-583.
Lake Tohopekaliga in Osceola county, FL. Monitor effects of 7 ft drawdown. Littoral plant
communities increased 16%, with many species valuable for fish habitat increasing. Differences
in rate of decrease and duration of drawdowns in 1953 and 1971 caused shifts in macrophyte
community. Quantitative = Yes. Macrophyte (abundance, diversity). Magnitude. Duration.
Homan, J. M., & Barwick, R. D. (2010). Relationship between Discharge and Electrofishing
Catch-per-unit-effort of Largemouth Bass in the Neuse River , North Carolina.
Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and
Wildlife Agencies, 64, 184-189.
Sampled largemouth bass populations in Neuse River tributaries weekly in spring 2006 and 2007
to investigate the relationship between CPUE and streamflow. Small increases in streamflow
between 60 and 100 cms caused changes in CPUE. Above threshold, CPUE was low 20 fish/h.
Below threshold, CPUE exceeded 100 fish/h. Generally, CPUE was higher when discharge was
<85 cms. Related to catchability – not abundance or demographics. Quantitative=No. Fish
(Catchability). Magnitude.
Hornick, L. E., Webster, J R, & Benfield, E F. (1981). Periphyton Production in an
Appalachian Mountain Trout Stream. American Midland Naturalist, 106(1), 22-36.
Retrieved from <Go to ISI>://A1981MC86900003
Primary production rates most influenced by light, streamflow, and inorganic carbon. Lower
flows in summer, lower light levels, and higher inorganic carbon levels promote higher rates of
primary production. Effect of streamflow confounded by many variables. Quantitaive=No. But
could develop linear relationships between average stream discharge and periphyton production.
Algae/Periphyton (Production). Magnitude (Seasonal).
Hupp, C. R., Pierce, A. R., & Noe, G. B. (2009). Floodplain Geomorphic Processes and
Environmental Impacts of Human Alteration Along Coastal Plain Rivers, USA.
Wetlands, 29(2), 413-429. doi:10.1672/08-169.1
Dams, stream channelization, and levee/canal construction are common human alterations along
Coastal Plain fluvial systems. Explored effects of dams along the lower Roanoke River, North
Carolina. Roanoke river is generally incised through the legacy sediment and other Coastal Plain
sediments. Erosion on cut banks and many straight reaches appears active, there is limited pointbar development. Flood- control operations on the Roanoke River have had large hydrologic
impacts including the elimination of high-magnitude flooding and a greater frequency of both
moderate and particularly low. Variation in flow velocity associated with power generation
(peaking) may facilitate bank erosion. Regulated flow has likely increased bank erosion along
most reaches including common straight reaches, which removes consider- able riparian edge
habitat. Effects of flow confounded by sediment. Quantitative =No. Conceptual. Sediment.
Magnitude, Frequency, duration, Rate of change.
Jackson, C Rhett, & Pringle, C. M. (2010). Ecological Benefits of Reduced Hydrologic
Connectivity in Intensively Developed Landscapes. BioScience, 60(1), 37-46. American
Institute of Biological Sciences. doi:10.1525/bio.2010.60.1.8
Potential negative consequences of enhancing hydrologic connectivity such as spread of exotic
species, transporting high levels of nutrients and toxins, and degrading habitats with limited
sediment regimes. Reduced hydrologic connectivity may provide greater ecological benefits than
enhanced connectivity does in highly developed, human-modified ecosystems. Reducing peak
flows may help sediment starvation (mussel habitats) in Appalachicola River below Seminole
Dam, FL. Quantitaive=No. Conceptual. General Ecology. Natural Flow Regime.
Jackson, D. C., & Davies, W. D. (1986). The Influence of Differing Flow Regimes on the
Tailwater Fishery Below Jordan Dam, Alabama. Proceedings of the Annual Conference
of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 40, 37-46.
Few significant differences could be detected between a high flow year and a low flow year with
respect to catch, effort, catch per unit effort, or the functional composition of the multi-species
tailwater fishery below Jordan Dam on the Coosa River, Alabama. Quantiative = Yes. Fish
(Abundance). Magnitude (Seasonal).
Jackson, J. R., & Noble, R. L. (2000). Relationships between annual variations in reservoir
conditions and age-0 largemouth bass year-class strength. Transactions of the American
Fisheries Society, 129, 699-715.
Relationship between largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides year class strength and adult stock
characteristics, dynamics of larval and juvenile shad Dorosoma spp., lake elevation dynamics, and
seasonal air temperatures in Jordan Lake, North Carolina. No significant relationships were
observed between largemouth bass year-class size and spawning stock size, shad dynamics, or
variations in lake levels. Late-winter and early spring air temperatures explained a significant
amount of the observed variation in catch rates of age-0 largemouth bass. Quantitative = Yes.
Fish (abundance, reproduction). Magnitude (CV- Variation, Range/Fluctuation).
Jones, D. T., Sah, J. P., Ross, M. S., Oberbauer, S. F., Hwang, B., & Jayachandran, K.
(2006). Responses of Twelve Tree Species Common in Everglades Tree Islands to
Simulated Hydrologic Regimes. Wetlands, 26(3), 830-844. The Society of Wetland
Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2006)26[830:ROTTSC]2.0.CO;2
12 tree species common in Everglades tree islands were subjected to 3 hydrologic regimes under
controlled conditions and assessed for growth and physiological responses. The three treatments –
high flood (HF=15 weeks of surface flooding), low flood (LF), no flood (NF). HF treatment
resulted in reduced tree growth that was more pronounced and occurred earlier in mesic forest
species than in swamp forest species. LF treatment had greater growth in all species compared to
soil inundation under HF, except for the most flood-tolerant (Annona, Morella, Salix).
Quantitative = No. Riparian/Wetland Vegetation (Growth). Duration (Hydroperiod)
Jordan, F., Babbitt, K. J., & Mclvor, C. C. (1998). Seasonal variation in habitat use by
marsh fishes. Ecology of Freshwater Fish, 7(4), 159-166. doi:10.1111/j.16000633.1998.tb00182.x
Sampled for fish in wet prairies and sloughs in Blue Cypress Marsh Conservation Area in the St.
Johns River system. Bluefin killifish, mosquitofish, and golden topminnows more abundant in
sloughs than in wet prairies. Everglades pygmy sunfish were more abundant in wet prairies than
in sloughs. Negative correlation between water depth and fish density b/c fish concentrated in
sloughs at lower water levels. Eastern mosquitofish and flagfish Jordanella floridae invaded
newly flooded areas during rising water levels. Extended inundation results in extended
opportunities for dispersal, reproduction, and growth. Reflected in gradual increases in fish
densities (period December 1992 through 1993). In contrast, seasonal marsh contraction leads to a
relatively rapid concentration of fishes into local topographic depressions such as sloughs and
alligator holes – increase in fish density due to concentration not changes in population size.
Quantitative= Possibly. Fish (abundance, richness). Magnitude.
King, S. L., Sharitz, R. R., Groninger, J. W., & Battaglia, L. L. (2009). The Ecology,
Restoration, and Management of Southeastern Floodplain Ecosystems: A Synthesis.
Wetlands, 29(2), 624-634. The Society of Wetland Scientists. doi:10.1672/08-223.1
Synthesize concepts of sustainability of floodplain ecosystem functions and evaluate the
applicability of restoration and conservation techniques. Current and future challenges and
attempt to identify new approaches that may facilitate the long-term sustainability of southeastern
floodplain systems. Integration of disciplines and approaches is necessary to meet the floodplain
conservation challenges. Quantitative=No. Conceptual. Riparian/Wetland Ecosystems. Natural
flow regime.
Knight, R. R., Gregory, M. B., & Wales, A. K. (2008). Relating streamflow characteristics to
specialized insectivores in the Tennessee River Valley: a regional approach.
ECOHYDROLOGY, 1(4), 394-407. doi:10.1002/eco.32
Analysis of Hydrologic time series and fish community data across the Tennessee River Valley.
Specialized insectivore scores increased with streamflow constancy, decreased with increasing the
frequency of moderate flooding (3xM flow), and decreased with steeper (more negative)
streamflow recession rates (fall rates). Quantitative = Yes. Fish (IBI). Timing (Constancy),
Frequency (3xM flow), Rate of change (fall rates).
Krause, C. W., Newcomb, T. J., & Orth, D J. (2005). Thermal habitat assessment of
alternative flow scenarios in a tailwater fishery. River Research and Applications, 21(6),
581-593. Chichester: John Wiley & Sons Ltd LA - English.
15 alternative flow scenarios were used to mitigate effects of coldwater release from Philpott
Dam, Smith River, VA. Alternative flow regimes led to very little changes in temperature for
optimal brown trout growth (12-19C). And flow regimes did not lead to any temperatures above
21C in the upper 10km of the river. Natural flow restoration constrainted by structure and
operation of hydroelectric facilities. Quantitative=No. Flow > temperature > Fish. Fish (habitat).
Subdaily flows. Timing, Duration, Magnitude (baseflow).
Kushlan, J. A. (2011). Differential Responses to Drought in Two Species of Fundulus.
Copeia, 1973(4), 808-809.
Behavior of golden topminnow Fundulus chrysotus and marsh killifish F. confluentus in relation
to lowering water levels in the Big Cypress Swamp, Florida. Golden topminnow retreated to
remaining pools whereas marsh killifish massed in shallow areas that were frequently isolated
from permanent water. May relate to different reproductive strategies. Marsh killifish may spawn
during this time as their eggs can survive periods out of water in humid microclimates. Golden
topminnows spawn on submerged vegetation. Quantitative=No. Fish (behavior, abundance).
Magnitude (seasonal).
Lake, P. S. (2003). Ecological effects of perturbation by drought in flowing waters.
FRESHWATER BIOLOGY, 48(7), 1161-1172. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2427.2003.01086.x
Review of the effects of drought on hydrologic connectivity and biota. Disruption ranges from
flow reduction to complete loss of surface water and connectivity. Longitudinal patterns::
‘downstream drying’, ‘headwater drying’ and ‘mid-reach drying’. Droughts effect densities and
size- or age-structure of populations, community composition and diversity, and ecosystem
processes. Organisms resist the effects of drought by the use of refugia. Survival in refugia may
strongly influence capacity of the biota to recover from droughts once they break. Recovery by
biota varies markedly between seasonal and supra-seasonal droughts. Quantitative=No.
Conceputal/Review. Fish, Macroinvertebrates, Algae, Organic Matter. Duration (intermitency
length).
Lamprecht, S. D., & Shelton, W. L. (1986). Spatial and Temporal Movements of Striped
Bass in the Upper Alabama River. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the
Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 40, 266-274.
Documents movements of radio-tagged striped bass Morone saxatilis in the Alabama River,
Alabama. Fish showed differences in movement and holding site based on water releases from
Thurlow Dam. The authors stated that interpretation of fish movements was complicated by cooccurrence of daylight and flow and that both factors were likely important in influencing daily
behavior. Maximum swimming speeds of 0.33m/s would only hold for no more than 40 minutes.
During releases, fish used 3 additional holding sites protected from swift currents.
Quantitative=No. Fish (behavior). Subdaily (Rate of change).
Leonard, P. M., & Orth, Donald J. (1988). Use of Habitat Guilds of Fishes to Determine
Instream Flow Requirements Use of Habitat Guilds of Fishes to Determine Instream
Flow Requirements. North American Journal of Fisheries Management, 8(4), 399-409.
Grouped 8 warmwater fishes into 4 habitat-use guilds based on a cluster analysis of depth,
velocity, substrate, and cover use. Guilds were separated by water velocity. Habitat-suitability
criteria were developed for each species and life stage combination, and these criteria were used
in PHABSIM - relate WUA and discharge for Dunlap Ck, Craig Ck, and Maury River,VA . The
relationship between WUA and discharge was relatively stable for habitat generalists and a few
habitat specialists over a wide range of flows. 4 Types of habitat-discharge relationships
identified and were consistent among streams. WUA for species within each guild exhibited
similar responses to discharge except species that were stream-margin inhabitants and for
preferred cover. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (habitat). Magnitude.
Livingston, R. J. (1997). Trophic response of estuarine fishes to long-term changes of river
runoff. Bulletin of Marine Science, 60(3), 984-1004.
13-year study to analyze response of estuarine fishes (numbers, biomass and trophic organization)
to seasonal and interannual variations of Apalachicola River flow and habitat changes of East Bay
estuary, FL. Periodic peak floods and prolonged droughts were important events that led to
altered patterns of individual fish distribution in terms of numerical abun- dance and biomass.
Herbivores and omnivores (dominated by infaunal and epifaunal macroinvertebrates) directly
responsive to river-associated physico- chemical factors whereas the carnivores (dominated by the
fishes) responded to biological factors (predation/competition). Estuarine fish organization was
indirectly responsive to river flow through prey responses to state habitat and productivity). A
prolonged drought led to reduced fish species richness, reduced trophic diversity, simplified food
web, lower overall fish biomass, and lower individual species populations. Overall fish numbers
tended to be lowest during periods of high river flow and highest during the low flow periods of
1977-1978 and 1980-1981. Fish numbers were significantly higher during spring periods with
particularly high peaks during the winter-spring of 1977-1978. Drought of 1981 gave way to
progressive decreases in fish numbers. Fish biomass was highest during periods following the
1973 and 1975 river flow peaks. Low species richness during the 1973 floods. Decreased species
richness was significant during the 1980-1981 drought period with recovery to previous levels
during the subsequent return of higher river flows. Fish species richness was highest during the
period following the 1973 and 1975 floods. Fish species richness showed relatively complex
relationships to the long-term changes of Apalachicola River flow with periods of high and low
river flow associated with low species richness. Quantitative = Yes, but complicated. Ecosystem
scale. Fish (abundance, biomass, richness). Magnitude.
Livingston, R. J., Niu, X., Lewis, F Graham, & Woodsum, Glenn C. (1997). Freshwater
input to a gulf estuary: Long-term control of trophic organization. Ecological
Applications, 7(1), 277-299.
Relationship between freshwater inflows of the Apalachicola River and trophic organization of
the Apalachicola Bay, FL. Loss of freshwater inflow resulted in loss of productivity. Reduction of
freshwater flow below a specific level resulted in the physically controlled, highly productive
rivere-stuarine system becoming a species-rich, biologically controlled bay with substantially
reduced productivity. Decreased flows = decreased turbidy = increased primary productivity =
altered trophic system. Quantitative = Yes, but complicated. Ecosystem scale.
Macroinvertebrates (abundance). Fish (abundance, biomass, richness). Magnitude.
Livingston, R., Lewis, F. G., Woodsum, G. C., Niu, X.-F., Galperin, B., Huang, W.,
Christensen, J. D., et al. (2000). Modelling Oyster Population Response to Variation in
Freshwater Input. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 50, 655-672.
doi:10.1006/ecss.1999.0597
Oyster (Crassostrea virginica) population dynamics in the Apalachicola Estuary, FL. By
influencing salinity levels and current patterns throughout the bay, Apalachicola River was
important in controlling mortality directly or thru predation. Oyster production rates depend on a
combination of variables directly and indirectly associated with freshwater input = modified by
wind, tidal factors, and the physiography. River flow reduction, whether through naturally
occurring droughts, through increased upstream anthropogenous (consumptive) water use, or a
combination of the two, could have serious adverse consequences for oyster populations.
Quantitative = Yes. Macroinvertebrate (survival). Magnitude (Drought).
Lorenz, J. J. (1999). The Response of Fishes to Physicochemical Changes in the Mangroves
of Northeast Florida Bay. Estuaries, 22(2), 500-517. doi:10.2307/1353214
Influence of freshwater inflow on fishes in a Florida Bay mangrove habitat. Fish density was
significantly related to short-term and long-term changes in water level. Temperature was also a
factor. Sites with a longer hydroperiod had higher densities and of fish than sites with a shorter
hydroperiod. Longer freshwater periods higher fish biomass than shorter periods. Salinity,
influenced by freshwater inputs, also affected biomass. Sites with longer freshwater periods had
more fish biomass and larger-bodied fish than sites with shorter freshwater periods. Quantitative
= potentially. Fish (abundance, biomass). Duration (hydroperiod). Magnitude (CV).
Lukas, J. A., & Orth, Donald J. (1995). Factors Affecting Nesting Success of Smallmouth
Bass in a Regulated Virginia Stream. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society,
124, 726-735.
North Anna River, VA. High flow disrupted smallmouth bass spawning five times. Successful
nests were distinquished from unsuccessful nests by higher flow at time of nest construction and
lower mean stream discharge during nest incubation. High flow (> 10 m3/s) was responsible for
most nest failures (85%). Temporal pattern of streamflow fluctuation appears to be the most
important abiotic factor determining nesting success or failure for smallmouth bass in this
perennial stream. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (Reproduction). Magnitude (peak flow), Rate of
Change (Reversals).
Lytle, D. A., & Poff, N L. (2004). Adaptation to natural flow regimes. Trends in Ecology &
Evolution, 19(2), 94-100. Retrieved from <Go to ISI>://000188931400010
Identify three modes of adaptation (life history, behavioral and morphological) that plants and
animals use to survive floods and/or droughts. Mode of adaptation determines each organism’s
vulnerability to different kinds of flow regime alteration. Quantitative=No. Conceptual. Multiple
ecological. Natural Flow Regime. Floods, Drought (Magnitude, Timing, Duration, Frequency,
Rate of change).
McCargo, J., & Peterson, J. (2010). An Evaluation of the Influence of Seasonal Base Flow
and Geomorphic Stream Characteristics on Coastal Plain Stream Fish Assemblages.
Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, 139(1), 29-48. doi:10.1577/T09-036.1
Studied fish assemblages in the lower Flint River basin, GA, during 2 drought years with low
streamflow (2001–2002) and 2 postdrought years (2003–2004) with average to above-average
streamflow. Fish species richness and total fish density positively related to seasonal 10-d low
discharge. Effect of discharge complicated by stream size and geomorphic channel characteristics.
The effect of seasonal base flows also was greater in the spring and summer than in winter. Fish
species most sensitive were large bodied, intolerant to anth. disturbance, and occupied deep/ fast
current velocities. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (Diversity). Magnitude (10-day low flow).
Merritt, D. M., Scott, M. L., LeROY POFF, N., Auble, G. T., & Lytle, D. a. (2010). Theory,
methods and tools for determining environmental flows for riparian vegetation:
riparian vegetation-flow response guilds. Freshwater Biology, 55(1), 206-225.
doi:10.1111/j.1365-2427.2009.02206.x
Organize riparian plants into groups of species with shared traits related to components of
hydrologic regime: life history, reproductive strategy, morphology, adaptations to fluvial
disturbance and adaptations to water availability. Probabilistic models based on riparian response
guilds enable prediction of the likelihood of change in each of the response guilds given projected
changes in flow, and facilitate examination of trade-offs and risks associated with various flow
management strategies. Quantitative=No. Conceptual. Riparian vegetation (Trait Presence).
Natural flow regime.
Miranda, L. E., Shelton, W. L., Bryce, T. D., Shelton, W. L., & Bryce, T. D. (1984). Effects
of Water Level Manipulation on Abundance , Mortality , and Growth of Young-ofYear Largemouth Bass in West Point Reservoir , Alabama- Georgia. North American
Journal of Fisheries Management, 4(3), 314-320.
Raising water levels above normal pool inundated terrestrial vegetation and provided cover for
LMB YOY. Positive relationship between early survival of age-0 largemouth bass and water level
(duration) during the spawning period. In the post-spawning period, survival rate, and abundance
of age-0 were related directly to water level, but growth was inversely affected. The results
indicated that increased abundance and survival of age-0 largemouth bass can lead to slower
growth due to limitations on system carrying capacity. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (abundance).
Duration (Days of flooding).
Mitsch, W. J., Ewel, K. C., American, S., Naturalist, M., & Apr, N. (1979). Comparative
Biomass and Growth of Cypress in Florida Wetlands. American Midland Naturalist,
101(2), 417-426.
Lowest biomass and tree growth occured in low-water conditions and high water conditions. Best
tree growth/biomass occured in moderate water conditions. Parabolic curve of too wet and too dry
conditions with moderate water levels having highest NPP. Quantitative = No. Riparian
(growth). Magnitude.
Mortazavi, B., Iverson, R., Landing, W., Lewis, F., & Huang, W. (2000). Control of
phytoplankton production and biomass in a river-dominated estuary: Apalachicola
Bay, Florida, USA. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 198, 19-31. doi:10.3354/meps198019
Maximum river flow occurring in late winter and early spring. High flows higher nutrient input
and higher primary production. Maximum chl a occurred during winter, while primary
productivity maxirna occurred in late spring and summer months when temperature and
photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) reached annual maxima. Approximately 75 % of annual
primary production occurred from May through November of each year. Low chl a concentrations
in Summer months were concurrent with high phytoplankton productivity, high zooplankton
abundance, low river flow, and low nutrient input to the estuary. Quantitative= Potentially. Algae
(Primary Production). Macroinvertebrate (abundance). Flow (magnitude).
Mosley, D. L., & Jennings, C. A. (2007). Flow Preferences for Juvenile Robust Redhorses in
an Experimental Mesocosm : Implications for Developing Sampling Protocols. North
American Journal of Fisheries Management, 27, 1383-1392.
Two mesocosms were used to determine whether juv. robust redhorses use flow classes in
proportion to their availability. Mimicked flow in Oconee River. Juveniles were exposed to four
flow- \based habitat types (eddies(-0.12 to -0.01 m/s), slow flow (0.00–0.15 m/s), moderate flow
(0.16–0.32 m/s), and backwaters). In winter, test fish showed a preference for eddies and
backwaters and avoided slow to moderate flows. In early spring, test fish showed a preference for
eddies and avoided the moderate flows. Quantitative=No. If paired with supporting information,
could be quantitative. Fish (Habitat use), Habitat Suitability. No flow information.
Mynsberge, A. R., Strager, M. P., Strager, J. M., & Mazik, P. M. (2009). Developing
Predictive Models for Freshwater Mussels (Mollusca: Unionidae) in the Appalachians:
Limitations and Directions for Future Research. Ecoscience, 16(3), 387-398.
doi:10.2980/16-3-3221
Subwatershed-based models developed for Elliptio complanata and E. dilatata in the MidAtlantic and Ohio drainage regions of the United States using existing survey data performed well
on training datasets but did not accurately predict independent species occurrences. E.
complanata presence negatively related to mean annual minimum flow. Quantitative = No.
Macroinvertebrate (presence/occupancy). Magnitude (minimum flow).
Najjar, R. G., Pyke, C. R., Adams, M. B., Breitburg, D., Hershner, C., Kemp, M., Howarth,
R., et al. (2010). Potential climate-change impacts on the Chesapeake Bay. Estuarine,
Coastal and Shelf Science, 86(1), 1-20. doi:10.1016/j.ecss.2009.09.026
The greatest uncertainty is associated with annual streamflow. Likely that winter and spring flows
will increase. Climate change cause the Bay to function differently: (1) increase in coastal
flooding and submergence of estuarine wetlands; (2) an increase in salinity variability; (3)
increase in harmful algae; (4) increase inhypoxia; (5) reduction of eelgrass, the dominant
submerged aquatic vegetation in the Bay; and (6) altered interactions among trophic levels, with
subtropical fish and shellfish species ultimately being favored in the Bay. Increase in flows may
reduce water clarity and increase sediment load to Bay. Streamflow will affect salinity.
Quantitative=No. Ecosystem Level. Magnitude.
Neatrour, M. A., Webster, Jackson R, & Benfield, Ernest F. (2004). The role of floods in
particulate organic matter dynamics of a southern Appalachian river–floodplain
ecosystem. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 23(2), 198-213. North
American Benthological Society. doi:10.1899/08873593(2004)023<0198:TROFIP>2.0.CO;2
Separated 12 sites along Little Tennessee River into 2 groups (inundated and non-inundated)
based on the degree of flooding after a flood in 1998 (7-8yr recurrence interval). Significant
transport of leaves (POM) from the floodplain to the river occurred at inundated sites, but
transport of herbaceous or woody material did not occur. Flood increased leaf breakdown rates.
Leaves entrained from floodplain of Little Tennessee River during floods are a source of POM to
the active channel. However, flood input of leaves were small source of POM compared to direct
leaffall. Quantitative=Yes. Organic Matter (Decomposition, Transport). Magnitude (7-8yr
Flood).
Neubauer, C. P., Hall, G. B., Lowe, E. F., Robison, C. P., Hupalo, R. B., & Keenan, L. W.
(2008). Minimum flows and levels method of the St. Johns River Water Management
District, Florida, USA. Environmental management, 42(6), 1101-14. doi:10.1007/s00267008-9199-y
St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) has developed minimum flows and
levels (MFLs) method - applied to rivers, lakes, wetlands, and springs. Primarily focused on
ecological protection to ensure systems meet or exceed minimum eco-hydrologic requirements.
MFLs are not calculated using information from elevation transects. Multiple MFLs define a
minimum hydrologic regime to ensure that high, intermediate, and low hydrologic conditions are
protected. Developed from needed levels and duration of flow: valley maintenance,
wetland/riparian flooding, fish passage, substrate. Quantitative=No. Wetland/Riparian
vegetation. Soils/Sediments. Fish. Magnitude (flow/level), Duration (days), and Frequency
(Return interval-years).
Newcomb, T. J., Hanna, K. M., & Anderson, M. R. (2001). Macroinvertebrate Forage in the
Smith River Tailwater. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern
Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 55, 116-125
Sampled benthic macroinvertebrates in July 2000 and April 2001 at 12 sites in the Smith River
below Philpott Dam in southwestern VA. Low values of family richness near the dam but
richness more than doubled by 4.2 km downstream. Abundance of aquatic invertebrates lower
than expected for a stream of this size in VA. No strong pattern between distance from the dam
and macroinvertebrate abundance. However, isolated peaks in macro abundance at discrete
locations suggest localized channel characteristics improved some areas for macroinvertebrate
colonization. Also complicated by temperature. Quantitative = No. But could support quantitative
analysis with more information. Macroinvertebrate (abundance, diversity). Subdaily ; Rate of
Change (ramping). Subdaily fluctuaion (CV).
Nilsson, C., & Svedmark, M. (2002). Basic principles and ecological consequences of
changing water regimes: riparian plant communities. Environmental Management,
30(4), 468-480. New York: Springer-Verlag New York Inc. LA - English.
doi:10.1007/s00267-002-2735-2
Fundamental principles of riparian communties proposed are: (1) flow regime determines the
successional evolution of riparian plant communities and ecological processes. (2) riparian
corridor serves as a pathway for redistribution of organic and inorganic material (3) riparian system is a transition zone between land and water ecosystems and is disproportionately plant
species-rich when compared to surrounding ecosystems. Three principles relate to the natural
flow regime, flood pulse concept, river continuum, boundary/interface perspectives, and fourdimensional framework (Ward 1989). Quantitative=No. Conceptual.
NILSSON, C., & BERGGREN, K. (2000). Alterations of Riparian Ecosystems Caused by
River Regulation. BioScience, 50(9), 783-792. American Institute of Biological Sciences.
doi:10.1641/0006-3568(2000)050[0783:AORECB]2.0.CO;2
Dam operations have caused global-scale ecological changes in riparian ecosystems. To protect
river environments, lateral and longtudinal and vertical interactions of reservoirs and rivers
downstream of dams must be taken into account to understand riparian succession and community
dynamics. Within reservoirs = effects of inundation and new riparian habitats. Dowstream
effects = Hydrology&geomorphology interactions = reduced riparian diversity. Quantitative=No.
Conceptual.
Olden, J. D., & Kennard, M. J. (2010). Intercontinental Comparison of Fish Life History
Strategies along a Gradient of Hydrologic Variability. American Fisheries Society
Symposium, 73, 83-107.
Found evidence that fish life history composition of drainage basins in the two continents have
converged across similar gradients of hydrologic variability and productivity despite phylogenetic
and historical differences. Relationships were largely consistent with predictions from life history
theory. Increasing hydrologic variability increases opportunistic strategists (a strategy that
maximizes fit ness in unpredictable environmental settings) but decreases periodic-type species (a
strategy typically inhabits seasonal, periodically suitable environments). Quantitative=Yes, Fish
(life history trait), Magnitude (Annual Runoff, Daily CV).
Orth, D. J. (1995). FOOD WEB INFLUENCES ON FISH POPULATION RESPONSES TO
INSTREAM FLOW.. Bulletin Français de la Pêche et de la Pisciculture, (337-338-339),
317-328. doi:10.1051/kmae1995036
PHABSIM seldom correctly forcasts fish population responses to changes in streamflow.
Question: How many species and life stages to analyze and how to weight the importance of each.
PHAMSIM for common warmwater fishes indicate that WUA is either insensitive or maximized
at low flows. High flows are important for organic/nutrient inputs and benthic insectivore
production. Fish influenced great deal by bottom-up influences (e.g. food web). Decreases in
flow during the growing season may decrease insect production, thereby decreasing fish
production. PHABSIM should address food web structure and possibly individual-based models.
Quantitative =No. Conceptual. Fish.
Pajak, P., & Neves, R. J. (1987). Habitat Suitability and Fish Production : A Model
Evaluation for Rock Bass in Two Virginia Streams. Transactions of the American
Fisheries Society, 116(6), 839-850.
Changes in HSI explained no more than 22% of variability in mean standing stocks of rock bass
in 50 m sections of Back Reek, VA. Velocity, turbidity, substrate, substratum, and gradient.
Factors contributing to low explanatory power included geographically homogenous habitat,
seasonal movements, and depth/cover variables not included in HSI models. Better predictions if
assessments included entire home range and all life history stages of target species. Quantitative =
No.
Paller, M. H. (1987). Distribution of larval fish between macrophyte beds and open channels
in a southeastern floodplain swamp. Journal of Freshwater Ecology, 4(2), 191-200.
Standing stocks of larval drift were 160 X higher in macrophyte beds compared to open channels
during the day but only 13 X higher at night. No relation to flow. But indicate that channel
complexity may influence larval drift in relation to flows. Quantitative = No.
Paller, M. H. (1997). Recovery of a Reservoir Fish Community from Drawdown Related
Impacts. North American Journal of Fisheries Management, 17, 726-733.
Effect of an extended drawdown on a reservoir fish community in SC. Drawdown lasted 3.5
years, reduced the reservoir surface area and volume by 50%, and completely exposed the littoral
zone. Significant reductions in fish abundance and number of fish species, changes in the relative
abundance of fishes, and changes in the size structure of individual species of fish. Fish
community responded quickly to refilling. Fish numbers, species richness, and species
composition returned to pre-drawdown levels but size structure was efffected. Refugia provided
by the inflowing stream and rapid macrophyte growth in shallow coves allowed resistance to
drawdown. Quantitative = Yes. Magnitude.
Paller, M. H., Modica, S. F., & Hofstetter, E. G. (1992). Short-term changes in a
southeastern coastal plain fish assemblage following artificial increases in streamflow.
Rivers, 3(4), 243-259.
Investigate short-term effects of flow perturbations on recovering fish assemblages in streams
previous heated by nuclear reactors. 1-week, 9-fold increase in flow resulted in reductions in fish
richness and abundance. A second period of increased discharge, lasting 4 months, had limiting
effects. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (abundance, richness, size). Magnitude. Duration (high flow).
Paller, M. H., & Saul, B. M. (1996). Effects of temperature gradients resulting from
reservoir discharge on Dorosoma cepedianum spawning in the Savannah River.
Environmental Biology of Fishes, 45, 151-160. doi:10.1007/BF00005229
Timing and spatial pattern of gizzard shad, Dorosoma cepedianum, spawning were affected by
temperature gradient caused by the release of hypolimnetic water from Strom Thurmond
Reservoir into the Savannah River. Distinct thermal gradient occurred with the warmest
temperatures at the downstream end of the 257 km study reach and the coolest temperatures at the
upstream end. Densities of larvae were highest at the downstream end of the study area early in
the spawning season and highest at the upstream end of the study area late in the spawning
season. Greater densities of larvae observed during April 1983, when water levels were high,
than during April 1984, when water levels were below flood stage. Quantitative=No. Fish
(reporduction, abundance). Magnidue (seasonal water level).
Parauka, F. M., Alam, S. K., & Fox, D. A. (2001). Movement and Habitat Use of Subadult
Gulf Sturgeon in Choctawhatchee Bay , Florida. Proceedings of the Annual Conference
of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 55, 280-297.
Movement and habitat use of Gulf sturgeon in the estuarine/marine environment of
Choctwahatchee River and bay was determined. Subadult Gulf sturgeon migration from the
freshwater riverine system to the marine system was influenced by an increase in river flow and a
decrease in water temperature. The use of 5 geographic areas by 95% of telemetered Gulf
sturgeon may be linked to food availability. Telemetered Gulf sturgeon initiated emigration out of
the river with an increase in water flow in late September/October and a decrease in water
temperature. In October 1998, the discharge in the Choctawhatchee River increased to 2175
m3/second from 63 m3/second as a result of Hurricane Georges leading to emigration.
Quantitative=No. Fish (behavior, movement). Magnitude (peak flow), Timing (peak flow)Hurricane.
Pearsall, S. H., McCrodden, B. J., & Townsend, P. a. (2005). Adaptive management of flows
in the lower Roanoke River, North Carolina, USA. Environmental management, 35(4),
353-67. doi:10.1007/s00267-003-0255-3
Upstream dams are causing extended floods in the growing season for bottomland hardwood
forests, threatening their survival. In Roanoke River, describe the regulatory context for
negotiating an active adaptive management program, present conservation objective for bottomland hardwoods, and describe investigations in which we successfully employed a series of
models to develop testable management hypotheses. Longer duration of flood flows during late
spring/summer due to dam regulation – leads to lower survival of bottomland hardwoods.
Quantitative=No. Conceptual. Riparian. Duration. Magnitude. Frequency.
Peebles, E. B., & Greenwood, F. D. (2009). Spatial abundance quantiles as a tool for
assessing habitat compression in motile estuarine organisms. Florida Scientist, 72(4),
277-288.
Estuarine zooplankton, hyperbenthos and nekton often move upstream in response to reduced
freshwater inflows. Present a simple method for identifying habitat compression in association
with reduced freshwater inflows along the longitudinal estuarine axis and apply it to faunal
transect surveys of several west-central Florida tidal rivers. Regression was used to compare the
length (km) of the interdecile range (10th–90th cumulative abundance percentiles) under variable
freshwater inflow conditions. The use of quantiles frees the analysis from assumptions about the
shape of longitudinal abundance distributions.. In estuaries that have strong seasonal variation in
inflow, useful results can be obtained within 2 yrs of monthly transect data. This method offers
promise as a tool for inflow management in estuaries where long-term abundance data are not
available. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (Behavior/Dispersion). Magnitude. Duration (3-day low
flow).
Peterson, J. T., Wisniewski, J. M., Shea, C. P., & Jackson, C R. (2011). Estimation of mussel
population response to hydrologic alteration in a Southeastern U.S. stream.
Environmental Management, 48(1), 109-122. New York: Springer LA - English.
doi:10.1007/s00267-011-9688-2
Developed models to estimate survival, recruitment, and population growth rates for 3 federally
endangered mussels in the Apalachicola–Chattahoochee–Flint River Basin, GA. Used 5 years of
mussel recapture data in Sawhatchee Creek, SW GA. Mussel survival negatively related to high
flows during the summer. Recruitment positively related to flows during the spring and summer.
Probability of simulated mussel population extinction was at least 8 times greater under current
(1980-2008) compared to past (1940-1969) hydrologic regime. Risk of population extinction
increases with increasing water use. Quantitative=Yes. Macroinvertebrate (Mussel survival).
Magnitude (High flows, season flows).
Peterson, J., Jackson, C. Rhett, Shea, C., & Li, G. (2009). Development and Evaluation of a
Stream Channel Classification for Estimating Fish Responses to Changing Streamflow.
Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, 138(5), 1123-1137. doi:10.1577/T08146.1
Developed channel classification for streams in lower Flint River basin, GA, based on channel
morphology and geology. Evaluated its usefulness at 23 study sites representing the four channel
types. Stream channel types separated based on dominant geology (upland residuum versus
Ocala limestone) and channel form (confined versus unconfined). Stream channel types
explained physiochemical differences (temperature, alkalinity). Channel types were useful for
predicting changes in habitats and stream fish presence and abundance in response to changing
streamflow. Slackwater/riffle habitats dramatically decrease with discharge. Pool habitats
increase with discharge. Quantitative=No. Fish (presence). Magnitude.
Peterson, R. C., & Jennings, C. A. (2007). Effects of river discharge on abundance and
instantaneous growth of age-0 carpsuckers in the Oconee River, Georgia, USA. RIVER
RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS, 23(9), 1016-1025. doi:10.1002/rra.1029
Regression models used to assess whether 12 river discharge categories (e.g. peak, low, seasonal
flows) influenced age-0 carpsucker abundance or instantaneous growth. Abundance of age-0
carpsuckers was negatively related to number of days river discharge was >85 cms. Instantaneous
growth rates positively related to summer river discharge. Moderate flows during spawning and
rearing are important for producing strong-year classes of carpsuckers. Riverdischarge is variable
among years, with suitable flows for strong year-classes of carpsuckers occurring every few
years. Quantitative =Yes. Fish (abundance, growth). Duration (Moderate flows). Magnitude
(seasonal).
Petty, J. T., & Grossman, Gary D. (2004). Restricted movement by mottled sculpin (pisces:
cottidae) in a southern Appalachian stream. Freshwater Biology, 49(5), 631-645.
doi:10.1111/j.1365-2427.2004.01216.x
Used direct observation and mark-recapture techniques to quantify movements by mottled
sculpins (Cottus bairdi) in a Shope Fork, western NC. Median and mean movement distances for
all sculpin size classes over a 45 day period were 1.3 and 4.4 m respectively. Movement of
juveniles increased with discharge and with the density of large adults. Movement by small and
large adults was not influenced by stream flow. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (behavior, movement).
Magnitude.
Pierce, A. R., & King, S. L. (2007). THE EFFECTS OF FLOODING AND
SEDIMENTATION ON SEED GERMINATION OF TWO BOTTOMLAND
HARDWOOD TREE SPECIES. Wetlands, 27(3), 588-594. The Society of Wetland
Scientists. doi:10.1672/0277-5212(2007)27[588:TEOFAS]2.0.CO;2
Determined the influence of altered flooding and sedimentation on the germination and growth of
two common floodplain tree species: swamp chestnut oak (Quercus michauxii Nutt.) and overcup
oak (Q. lyrata Walt.). Flood durations of 0 days, 15 days, and 30 days prior to germination was a
factor in germination, but varied by species. Overcup oak, which has a higher tolerance to
flooding than swamp chestnut oak, had higher germination rates in the flooded treatments (15-day
x flooded treatment x= 78% and 30-day x=85%) compared to the non-flooding x=54%). Swamp
chestnut oak germination negatively affected by the 30-day flood treatment. Sediment deposition
rates affected germination but were secondary to flood duration. Quantitative=Yes. Riparian
vegetation (growth). Duration (flood).
Poff, N. LeRoy, Pyne, M. I., Bledsoe, B. P., Cuhaciyan, C. C., & Carlisle, D. M. (2010).
Developing linkages between species traits and multiscaled environmental variation to
explore vulnerability of stream benthic communities to climate change. Journal of the
North American Benthological Society, 29(4), 1441-1458. doi:10.1899/10-030.1
Characterizing benthic species by traits that are responsive to temperature and streamflow
conditions can be used to assess the potential ecological responses to climate change. Described
45 environmental variables that spanned reach to catchment scales and that represented climate
drivers, hydrology, habitat features, and spatial metrics. Described benthic community
composition using 7 species traits, including sensitivity to temperature increases and streamflow
changes. All environmental variables explained 67% of the total trait variation across the sites,
and catchment-scale climatic and hydrologic variables independently accounted for 19%. Sites
were clustered into 3 community types based on trait composition, and a classification-tree
analysis confirmed that climatic and hydrologic variables were important in partitioning these
groups. Quantitative=No. Macroinvertebrate (traits).
Poff, N. Leroy, & Zimmerman, J. K. H. (2010). Ecological responses to altered flow regimes:
a literature review to inform the science and management of environmental flows.
Freshwater Biology, 55(1), 194-205. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2427.2009.02272.x
Reviewed 165 papers to determine if general relationships between flow & ecology could be
drawn from disparate case studies in the literature. Of the 165 papers, 152 (92%) reported
decreased values for recorded ecological metrics in response to a variety of types of flow
alteration, whereas 21 papers (13%) reported increased values. Macroinvertebrates showed mixed
responses to changes in flow magnitude, with abundance and diversity increasing and decreasing
in response to elevated & reduced flows. Fish abundance, diversity and demographic rates
consistently declined in response to both elevated & reduced flow magnitude. Riparian vegetation
metrics both increased and decreased in response to reduced peak flows. Quantitative=No. Good
source of potential papers with quantitative data.
Powers, S. P. (2009). Effects of Water Flow and Density on Early Survivorship and Growth
of the Northern Quahog Mercenaria mercenaria L. Journal of Shellfish Research,
28(4), 777-783. doi:10.2983/035.028.0406
Examine effects of water flow and juvenile density on hard clam survivorship and growth in Back
Sound, NC. Examined the effects of two different water flow regimes (ambient [0–22 cm/s] and
low [ 0–11 cm/s]) on growth of seed clams to market size. Clam growth and time to marketable
size was affected by water flow (difference < 4mmSL). At12 mo, 69% of clams were of
harvestable size in ambient flow compared with 42% in the low flow. Quantitative= Yes.
Macroinvertebrate (clams, growth). Magnitude.
Rehage, J. S., & Loftus, W. F. (2007). Seasonal fish community variation in the headwater
mangrove creeks in the Southwestern Everglads: An examination of their role as drydown refuges. Bulletin of Marine Science, 80(3), 625-645.
Examined seasonal dynamics in fish community of ecotonal creeks in Rookery Branch and the
North & Watson rivers, Everglades. 12 low-order creeks were sampled during the wet season,
transition period, and dry season in 2004–2005. Community composition varied seasonally in
Rookery Branch, and to a greater extent for the larger species, reflecting a pulse of freshwater
taxa into creeks as marshes upstream dried periodically. The pulse was short-lived, a later sample
showed substantial decreases in freshwater fish numbers. No evidence of a similar influx was
seen in the North and Watson rivers, which drain shorter hydroperiod marshes and exhibit higher
salinities. Head- water creeks can serve as important dry-season refugia. Increased freshwater
flow resulting from Everglades restoration may enhance this connectivity. Quantitative = Maybe.
Fish (abundance). Magnitude.
Reinert, T. R., Ploskey, G. R., & Van Den Avyle, M. J. (1995). Effects of Hydrology on Black
Bass Reproductive Success in Four Southeastern Reservoirs. Proceedings of the Annual
Conference of the Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 49, 47-57.
Examined relationship between fish reproductive success (abundance YOY) to hydrology in the
Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint and Alabama-Coosa-Tallapoosa Rivers, GA and AL.
(largemouth bass and spotted bass) Higher volumes, higher inflow, total annual change in storage,
higher areas and perimeters led to increases in YOY. Changes in area during Summer led to
decreases in YOY. Quantitative= No. Fish (abundance, reproduction). Magnitude.
Rogers, M. W., Allen, Micheal S., & Jones, M. D. (2005). Relationship between river surface
level and fish assemblage in the Ocklawaha River, Florida. River Research and
Applications, 21(5), 501-511. doi:10.1002/rra.818
Evaluated trends in fish abundance and fish communities relative to historical river levels in
Ocklawaha River, FL. Differences in abundance and community indices higher at the site with
increased river level variability. Fish abundance and species richness positively related to river
levels, and species diversity was negatively related to variability in river level during the two
years prior to sampling. Spotted sunfish Lepomis punctatus had highest variability in CPUE and
abundance was positively related to river levels. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (abundance, diversity).
Magnitude (water level/stage, CV).
Rogers, M. W., Allen, Micheal S., & Jones, M. D. (2005). Relationship between river surface
level and fish assemblage in the Ocklawaha River, Florida. River Research and
Applications, 21(5), 501-511. doi:10.1002/rra.818
Reviewed long-term Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission data to evaluate trends
in fish abundance and fish communities relative to historical river levels. Differences in
abundance and community indices among years were more common at the site with increased
river level variability. Fish abundance and species richness positively related to river levels, and
species diversity was negatively related to variability in river level during the two years prior to
sampling. Spotted sunfish Lepomis punctatus exhibited the most variability in species-specific
catch per effort and spotted sunfish abundance was positively related to river levels. Quantitative
= Yes. Fish (abundance, diversity). Magnitude (minimum, CV). Duration (low flows).
Rogers, S. G., Targett, T. E., & Sant, S. B. V. (1984). Fish-Nursery Use in Georgia SaltMarsh Estuaries : The Influence of Springtime Freshwater Conditions. Transactions of
the American Fisheries Society, 113(5), 595-606.
Investigated juvenile fish distributions in the Ogeechee River-Ossabaw Sound estuary of Georgia
in relation to freshwater discharges. High river discharges produced fully freshwater conditions in
upper part of esturary for 4 mo. Upper estuary nursery areas were important for several fish
species. Recruitment of estuarine fishes was likely inhibited during periods of high freshwater
discharge. Most estuarine fishes utilized freshwater areas and nursery function remained
essentially intact throughout seasonal freshwater encroachment. Recruitment and utilization
patterns of fish spawned in deeper habitats were maintained through prolonged periods of
freshwater conditions (100 days). Quantitative = Yes. Fish (abundance, reproduction).
Magnitude. Duration.
Roy, A H, Freeman, M. C., Freeman, B. J., Wenger, S. J., Ensign, W. E., & Meyer, J. L.
(2005). Investigating hydrologic alteration as a mechanism of fish assemblage shifts in
urbanizing streams. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 24(3), 656678. North American Benthological Society. doi:10.1899/04-022.1
Quantified hydrologic variables and fish assemblages in 30 small streams and their subcatchments
in the Etowah River, GA. Increased imperviousness positively correlated with the frequency of
storm events and rates of the rising and falling limb of the hydrograph. Increased duration of low
flows with imperviousness only occurred during the autumn low-flow = corresponded with
increase in lentic tolerant richness. Altered storm flows in summer and autumn related to
decreased richness of endemic, cosmopolitan, and sensitive fish species, and decreased lentic
tolerant abundance. Hydrologic variables explained 22 to 66% of the variation in fish assemblage
richness and abundance. Relationships between hydrologic alteration and fish assemblages
potentially complicated by sediment delivery, scour, and effects of stream gradient on sediment
delivery. Quantitative = No. Fish (abundance, diversity). Magnitude, Duration (stormflows and
baseflows).
Rudnick, D. T. d, Chen, Z., Childers, D. L., Boyer, J. N., & Fontaine, T. D. (1999).
Phosphorus an Nitrogen Inputs to Florida Bay: The Importance of the Everglades
Watershed. Estuaries, 22(2), 398. doi:10.2307/1353207
Explore how changing freshwater inflow to the southern Everglades is likely to change the input
of nutrients to Florida Bay. Interannual variability of the water discharge into ENP greatly
exceeded the interannual variability of flow-weighted mean nutrient concentrations in this water.
Nutrient inputs to ENP were largely determined by discharge volume. Increasing freshwater flow
to Florida Bay is not likely to increase P inputs from the freshwater Everglades but is likely to
increase TN inputs. Quantitative = Yes. Nutrient. Magnitude.
Ruetz, C. R. I., & Jennings, C. A. (2000). Swimming Performance of Larval Robust
Redhorse Moxostoma robustum and Low-Velocity Habitat Modeling in the Oconee
River , Georgia. TRANSACTIONS OF THE AMERICAN FISHERIES SOCIETY, 129,
398-407.
Measured swimming speeds for three size-classes of larvae and modeled low-velocity habitat
(i.e., as defined by larval swimming speeds) in the Oconee River. Used logistic regression to
calculate prolonged swimming speeds (i.e., water velocity at which 50% of fish failed to swim for
1 h) for each size-class. Prolonged swimming speeds were 6.9, 10.6, and 11.7 cm/s for 13.1, 16.2,
and 20.4-mm fish. Low-velocity areas were present in the river with increasing discharges. Not a
strong relationship between low-velocity habitat and discharge. However, low-velocity habitats
were dynamic during fluctuating discharge. Ability of larval robust redhorse to access these
areas? Quantitative=Yes. Theoretical. Fish (habitat). Magnitude.
Rulifson, Roger A, C. S. M. (1990). Recruitment of Juvenile Striped Bass in the Roanoke
River, North Carolina, as Related to Reservoir Discharge. North American Journal of
Fisheries Management, 10, 397-407.
Juvenile abundance index (JAI) values for YOY striped bass in Albemarle Sound (1955-1987)
were compared to preimpoundment (1912-1950) and post- impoundment (1955-1987) flows of
the Roanoke River during the spawning season (1 March-30 June). Recruitment was best (JAI >
5.0) for years where flows were low to moderate (5,000-11,000 cfs) and was poor (JAI < 5.0)
when flows were very low (3,900-8,100 cfs) or high (10,000 cfs or greater) during spawning
season. Average flow pattern for good recruitment years (JAI > 5.0) most closely resembled preimpoundment flow conditions. Years of lowest JAI values were also those with the fewest days in
which river flow was within the 25% to 75% bounds. Striped bass egg viability was 90% for
flows within the Q1-Q3 bounds over 50% of the days; during and after 1978, mean egg viability
was less than 50% and days within the Q1-Q3 bounds averaged 27%. Quantitative= Yes. Dam
Regulation. Fish (abundance, reproduction). Magnitude (Q1, Q3), Duration (% days within Q1Q3).
Rypel, A. L., Haag, W. R., & Findlay, R. H. (2009). Pervasive Hydrologic Effects on
Freshwater Mussels and Riparian Trees in Southeastern Floodplain Ecosystems.
Wetlands, 29(2), 497-504. doi:10.1672/08-109.1
Mussel/Bald cypress growth in Sipsey River AL, St. Francis River AR, and Little Tallahatchie
River, MS. Mussel growth in unregulated rivers was negatively correlated with annual flood pulse
count and May and June discharge, but positively correlated with annual low pulse count and
annual number of hydrographic reversals. Baldcypress growth in unregulated rivers was
positively correlated with May and June discharge and negatively correlated with annual low
pulse count. Mussel growth in the regulated river was not correlated with streamflow.
Quantitative = Correlation coefficients. Natural and Dam regulation. Mussel (growth). Riparian
Vegetation (growth). Magnitude (seasonal). Frequency (high pulse, low pulse). Rate of Change
(reversals).
Sakaris, P. C., & Irwin, E. R. (2010). Tuning stochastic matrix models with hydrologic data
to predict the population dynamics of a riverine fish. Ecological Applications, 20(2),
483-496. Washington: Ecological Society of America LA - English. doi:10.1890/080305.1
Developed stochastic matrix models to evaluate the effects of hydrologic alteration on the
population dynamics of flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) in regulated Coosa River AL (native)
and unregulated Ocmulgee River GA (introduced). Flathead catfish recruitment in Coosa River
was positively related to the frequency of spring pulses between 283 and 566 m3/s. For the
Ocmulgee River population, year class strength was negatively related to mean March discharge
and positively related to June low flow. Matrix Model predictions for future flow conditions were
variable. Favorable conditions led to increases. Unfavorable conditions led to decreases but then
increases. Fish responses may be temporary. Quantitative = Yes. Natural and Dam Regulation.
Fish (recruitment, abundance). Magnitude (seasonal). Frequency (high pulses).
Sammons, S. M., & Maceina, M J. (2009). Effects of river flows on growth of redbreast
sunfish Lepomis auritus (Centrarchidae) in Georgia rivers. Journal of fish biology,
74(7), 1580-1593. doi:10.1111/j.1095-8649.2009.02231.x
Investigated effects of river discharge on growth of redbreast sunfish Lepomis auritus in 9 rivers
in GA. For 8/9 rivers, higher or greater variation in flows from April to June was associated with
greater L. auritus growth. In 9th river, higher flows from January to March were associated with
greater fish growth. L. auritus growth increments were 22, 45 and 36% greater in wet versus dry
year (ages 1, 2 and 3). Increasing water withdrawals by an additional 30% in five Georgia rivers
would reduce the predicted number of L. auritus recruiting to 203 mm (angler preferred size) by
19–62%. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (growth/Size). Magnitude (seasonal, CV).
Scheidegger, K. J., & Bain, Mark B. (1995). Larval Fish Distribution and Microhabitat Use
in Free-Flowing and Regulated Rivers. Copeia, 1, 125-135. doi:10.2307/1446807
Larval fish distributions and habitat use in the unregulated CahabaRiver and the regulated
Tallapoosa River in Alabama. Sampled main channel and shoreline nursery habitats (i.e., shallow
areas with low flow). Larvae were significantly more abundant in the unregulated river, especially
in nursery areas. Altered flow appeared to have reduced larval fish abundance, changed
taxonomic composition, and disrupted microhabitat associations. Quantitative = Yes, may need
supporting information. Fish (abundance, richness). Subdaily: rate of change(ramping/rise rates).
Subdaily:Magnitude (CV). Daily: Rate of Change (reversals).
Simon, A., & Klimetz, L. (2008). Magnitude, frequency, and duration relations for
suspended sediment in stable (“reference”) southeastern streams. Journal of the
American Water Resources Association, 44(5), 1270-1283. Middleburg: American Water
Resources Association (AWRA) LA - English. doi:10.1111/j.1752-1688.2008.00222.x
Mean-daily flow data obtained from the USGS were applied to sediment-transport rating relations
to determine suspended-sediment load for each day of record. Calculated a frequency/duration
distribution for each site. ‘‘Reference’’ distributions were created using the stable sites in each
ecoregion by averaging all of the distributions at specified exceedance intervals. Broad range of
frequency and duration distributions that reflects the hydrologic and sediment-transport regimes
of the ecoregions. Quantitative=No, but good overall target for sediment dynamics. Sediment.
Magnitude, Frequency, Duration.
Sklar, Fh, & Browder, J. (1998). Coastal Environmental Impacts Brought About by
Alterations to Freshwater Flow in the Gulf of Mexico. Environmental management,
22(4), 547-62. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9582391
Conceptual model of the possible influences of freshwater inflows on biogeochemical and trophic
interactions used to structure the review, evaluate dominant effects, and discuss tools for coastal
management. Landscape alteration, impacting the timing and volume of freshwater inflow, was
found to be the most common stress on estuaries. Landscape alterations and altered flows
impacts salinity patterns, nutrients, sediment fertility, bottom topography, dissolved oxygen, and
xenobiotic concentrations. These influence productivity, structure, and behavior of coastal plant
and animals. Common biogeochemical impacts include excessive stratification, eutrophication,
sediment deprivation, hypoxia, and contamination. Common biological impacts include reduction
in livable habitats, promotion of ‘‘exotic’’ species, and decreased diversity. Parabolic curve of
Odum et al. 1979. Stress/disturbance. Quantitative = No. Conceptual.
Smith, P. P., & Atkinson, J. B. (1999). Flood and Debris-flow Effects on Virginia Brook
Trout Populations. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern
Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 53, 91-99.
Debris flows from 500-yr flood event impacted the lower 1/3 to 2/3 of the Rapidan, Staunton, and
North Fork Moormans rivers,VA either extirpating or greatly depressing trout populations. The
number of trout collected in debris flow areas were significantly reduced (P<0.05) in 1996, 1997,
and for the post-flood 3-year mean when compared to pre-flood means. Quantitative = Yes. Fish
(abundance). Magnitude (flood). Frequency (recurrence interval).
Smith, S., Odenkirk, J., & Reeser, S. (2005). Smallmouth Bass Recruitment Variability and
Its Relation to Stream Discharge in Three Virginia Rivers. North American Journal of
Fisheries Management, 25(3), 1112-1121. doi:10.1577/M04-047.1
Examined the relationship between stream discharge and recruitment success. Recruitment
success of smallmouth bass significantly related to mean June streamflow using a nonlinear
model, with the strongest year- classes produced in years with moderate flows. Mean June
streamflow reasonably predicted the abundance of age-0 smallmouth bass in the fall. Stream
discharge during and immediately after spawning could be critical to smallmouth bass recruitment
success. Quantitative=Yes. Fish (reproduction, abundance, recruitment). Magnitude (seasonal).
Smock, L. A. (2011). Movements of invertebrates between stream channels and forested
floodplains. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 13(4), 524-531.
Over period of 1 year, there was a net output of numbers of individuals from the floodplains to the
channels, whereas there was a net input of biomass to the floodplains. Drift accounted for the
majority of individuals moving to the floodplain, but most of the biomass moved onto the
floodplains by crawling across the channel-floodplain boundary. Most movements occurred
between the channels and floodplains during February-April, the numbers drifting being
positively correlated with discharge, whereas movement by crawling was primarily keyed to
habitat shifts associated with life history events. Quantitative = No. Importance of flooplain
interactions. Macroinvertebrate (abundance, biomass, behavior). Magnitude.
Snodgrass, J. W., Jagoe, C. H., Bryan, Jr., A. L., Brant, H. A., & Burger, J. (2000). Effects
of trophic status and wetland morphology, hydroperiod, and water chemistry on
mercury concentrations in fish. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences,
57(1), 171-180. doi:10.1139/cjfas-57-1-171
Investigated mercury (Hg) levels in lake chubsucker Erimyzon sucetta, mudsunfish Acantharcus
pomotis, and redfin pickerel Esox americanus in depression wetlands in SC. Trophic level of the
fish less important than site in Hg accumulation. Levels of Hg higher in wetlands that
experienced drying and re-flooding. Maximum depth and hydroperiod have direct negative
effects on Hg concentrations. Aerobic conditions during a dry-down promote bioavailability of
Hg and that Hg enters the food web when the wetland is flooded. Long periods of inundation lead
to anaerobic conditions and reduce bioavailability of Hg. Quantiative = No. Fish (toxins,
contamination). Magnitude (water height, CV). Duration. Constancy.
Taulbee, W. K., Nietch, C. T., Brown, D., Ramakrishnan, B., & Tompkins, M. J. (2009).
Ecosystem consequences of contrasting flow regimes in an urban effects stream
mesocosm study. Journal of the American Water Resources Association, 45(4), 907-927.
Treatments differed in base flow between peak flow events and in the rise, fall, and duration of
peak flow during simulated storm hydrographs during a 96-day period from summer to fall, 2005
(High baseflow, short duration) vs (Low baseflow, long duration). Sampling designed to study the
interactions among the treatment flow dynamics, sediment transport processes, streambed
nutrients, and biotic structure and function. Flow regime effected the initial mass of fines that
infiltrated into the gravel bed, which influenced nitrogen biogeochemistry. Flow affected fine
sediment accumulation rate affected the structure of the macroinvertebrate community.
Influenced macroinvertebrate community via streambed sediments. Flow> sediment>
macroinvertebrates. Hydrographs influenced periphyton production. Quantitative = No.
Ecosystem effects: Sediment. Periphyton (abundance), Macroinvertebrate (abundance, diversity).
Toth, L. A. (2005). Plant Community Structure and Temporal Variability in a Channelized
Subtropical Floodplain Southeastern Naturalist, 4(3), 393-408. doi:10.1656/15287092(2005)004
Species composition, cover, diversity, and temporal dynamics of 3 plant communities in the
channelized Kissimmee River, FL floodplain were evaluated. Managed hydrologic regimes have
promoted temporal stability, with seasonal variability of plant community characteristics limited
to a decline in live plant cover and species richness during winter months. Lower live vegetation
cover during winter resulted from senescence of dominant herbaceous species. Quantitative =No.
Riparian vegetation (diversity), Duration (hydroperiod).
Townsend, P. A. (2001). Relationships between vegetation patterns and hydroperiod on the
Roanoke River floodplain , North Carolina. Plant Ecology, 156, 43-58.
Quantified relationships between forest composition and flooding gradients on the Roanoke River
floodplain, NC. Tenth percentile (dry), median, and 90th percentile (wet) hydroperiod(flood
duration) regimes generated for the spring and year, both pre- and post-dam. Inundation during
extremely wet years (90th percentile hydroperiod, wet conditions) strongly controls species
composition on the floodplain. Spring hydroperiod drives competitive sorting. Annual
hydroperiod affects dominance of species. Quantitative = Yes. Riparian (abundance, diversity).
Duration (Flood, 10th, 90th percentiles, Spring, Annual).
Travnichek, V H, Bain, M. B., & Maceina, M J. (1995). Recovery of a Warmwater Fish
Assemblage after the Initiation of a Minimum-Flow Release Downstream from a
Hydroelectric Dam. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, 124(6), 836-844.
Retrieved from <Go to ISI>://A1995TF91800005
Species richness more than doubled after the minimum-flow regime in Tallapoosa River AL.
Before =only 8 species of fish collected 3 km downstream from the dam (all macrohabitat
generalists). After the minimum flow, double species, and over half of the species collected were
classified as fluvial specialists. Fish community response not as great 37 km downstream from
the dam. At 37km, more species classified as fluvial specialists. Additionally, relative abundance
of species classified as fluvial specialists increased from less than 40% of fish collected before
enhanced flows to over 80% after minimum flows began. Quantitative=Yes. Habitat Restoration.
Fish (diversity, abundance). Magnitude (minimum flow/base flow).
Travnichek, Vincent H, & Maceina, Michael J. (1994). Comparison of Flow Regulation
Effects on Fish Assemblages in Shallow and Deep Water Habitats in the Tallapoosa
River, Alabama. Journal of Freshwater Ecology, 9(3), 207-216.
doi:10.1080/02705060.1994.9664888
Compared the effects of flow regulation on fish assemblages in sliallow and deep water habitats
in Tallapoosa River, AL. Flow regulation had a greater effect on shallow water fish than deep
water fish. Species richness and diversity of shallow water fishes were reduced below two
hydroelectric dams compared with unmodified river segments. Caused by fluvial environments.
Additionally, the density of fish in shallow water areas of unregulated portions of the river was
significantly higher than the density at most of the regulated sites. No reductions in species
richness or diversity below the two dams were observed for species inhabiting deep water areas.
However, higher number of catostomid species in the unmodified river sections compared to the
flow-regulated sections. Quantitative=No, but could be matched with hydrologic data from
Tallapoosa River. Fish (abundance, diversity).
Van Den Avyle, M. J., & Maynard, M. A. (1994). Effects of Saltwater Intrusion and Flow
Diversion on Reproductive Success of Striped Bass in the Savannah River Estuary.
Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, 123(6), 886-903.
Documents reduced reproductive success of striped bass Morone saxatilis in the Savannah River
following river modifications, including construction of a tide gate and diversion canal. Changes
in flow and salinity greatly increased egg and larval mortality and lowered adult abundance on
spawning grounds. Reduced flow in the river led to the intrusion of salt water each season,
causing a complete lack of recruitment. Quatitative= Yes. Fish (repdroduction). Magnitude.
WALLACE, J. B., CUFFNEY, T. F., WEBSTER, J. R., LUGTHART, G. J., CHUNG, K., &
GOLDOWITZ, B. S. (1991). EXPORT OF FINE ORGANIC PARTICLES FROM
HEADWATER STREAMS - EFFECTS OF SEASON, EXTREME DISCHARGES,
AND INVERTEBRATE MANIPULATION. LIMNOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY,
36(4), 670-682.
Annual export of FPOM was strongly related to annual discharge. FPOM export during sampling
intervals was directly related to maximum discharge during the intervals. FPOM export during
sampling intervals was directly related to maximum discharge during the intervals. FPOM
concentrations measured during storms showed increasing concentrations with increasing
discharge in all streams. Quantitative= Yes. Organic Matter (FPOM export). Magnitude (storm
flow). Frequency (storm events).
WALLACE, J. B., WHILES, M. R., EGGERT, S., CUFFNEY, T. F., LUGTHART, G. H., &
CHUNG, K. (1995). LONG-TERM DYNAMICS OF COARSE PARTICULATE
ORGANIC-MATTER IN 3 APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN STREAMS. JOURNAL OF
THE NORTH AMERICAN BENTHOLOGICAL SOCIETY, 14(2), 217-232.
doi:10.2307/1467775
Annual CPOM export was poorly correlated with annual discharge. CPOM export strongly
related to storm frequency and magnitude. Over 63 to >77% of all CPOM export occurred during
the largest 20 storms. Export during individual sampling intervals was strongly related to
maximum discharge during the interval. Total leaf export and leaf export per unit maximum
discharge were greatest during the autumn and lowest during the spring and summer months in all
streams. Export of woody debris was more seasonally variable than that of leaves in two of the
three streams. Quantitative = Yes. Organic Matter (CPOM export). Magnitude (high flows).
Frequency (high flow events).
Wallus, R. (1986). Paddlefish Reproduction in the Cumberland and Tennessee River
Systems. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society, 115(3), 424-428.
Strong positive relationship between densities of larval paddlefish in Guntersville Reservoir and
mean April discharge from Nickajack Reservoir, Tennessee River system. Quantitative =Yes.
Dam regulated. Fish (reproduction, abundance). Magnitude (seasonal).
Walsh, C. J., Roy, Allison H, Feminella, Jack W, Cottingham, P. D., Groffman, P. M., &
Morgan, R. P. (2005). The urban stream syndrome: current knowledge and the search
for a cure. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 24(3), 706-723. North
American Benthological Society. doi:10.1899/04-028.1
Symptoms of the urban stream syndrome include a flashier hydrograph, elevated concentrations
of nutrients and contaminants, altered channel morphology, and reduced biotic richness
(increased dominance of tolerant species). Difficult to make generalizations about urban effects
on stream ecosystem processes, but reduced nutrient uptake has been consistently reported.
Mechanisms are complex and interactive, but mostly urban stormwater runoff delivered by
efficient drainage systems. Other stressors (sewer overflows, wastewater, and legacy pollutants)
can obscure effects of stormwater runoff. Need more research about effects of distance between
the stream reach and urban land, or by the hydraulic efficiency of stormwater drainage.
Quantitative=No. Conceptual. Ecosystem. Magnitude (high flows). Rate of change (response
time, fall & rise rates).
Walsh, H., Settle, L., & Peters, D. (2005). Early Life History of Blueback Herring and
Alewife in the Lower Roanoke River, North Carolina. Transactions of the American
Fisheries Society, 134(4), 910-926. doi:10.1577/T04-060.1
Blueback herring and alewife eggs spawned in backwater tributary systems, including flooded
bottomland hardwood forests. Fluctuations in river flow affected habitat use; moderate to high
discharge rates increased use of spawning and nursery habitats, and low flows reduced use of
spawning habitat. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (abundance, reproduction). Mangitude (seasonal).
Rate of Change (Reversals).
Walters, A. W. (2011). Resistance of aquatic insects to a low-flow disturbance: exploring a
trait-based approach. Journal of the North American Benthological Society, 30(2), 346356. North American Benthological Society. doi:10.1899/10-041.1
Explored the resistance of aquatic insects to reduced flow by creating an experimental low-flow
disturbance that diverted ,40 to 80% of the water in 3 streams. Focused on 6 traits: desiccation
resistance, maximum crawling rate, armoring, size at maturity, rheophily, and habit. Community
trait composition showed strong seasonal shifts. No consistent responses to reduced flow. 2 traits
showed some response: Diverted water = increased relative abundance of insects with high
crawling rate and armoring. Quantitative=Yes. Withdrawal. Macroinvertebrate (trait, abundance).
Magnitude.
Walters, A. W., & Post, D. M. (2011). How low can you go? Impacts of a low-flow
disturbance on aquatic insect communities. Ecological applications : a publication of the
Ecological Society of America, 21(1), 163-74. Retrieved from
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21516895
Diverted 40- 80% of the water in three streams, leading to summer flow exceedance probabilities
of up to 99.9%. Shifts in habitat availability drove aquatic insect community responses. Total
insect density decreased in riffle habitats, but there was no change in pools. Overall, total biomass
of aquatic insects decreased sharply with lowered flow. Collector-filterers, collector-gatherers,
and scrapers were especially susceptible, while predatory insects were more resistant. No shift in
aquatic insect family richness. Quantitative = Yes. Macroinvertebrate (abundance, diversity).
Magnitude.
West, J. C., Eversole, A. G., & Christie, R. W. (1988). Influence of River Discharge on
Blueback Herring Abundance. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the
Southeastern Association of the Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 42, 166-174.
Adult and larval blueback herring (Alosa aestivalis) sampled in the Santee River, SC in relation to
discharge and temp. Discharge and water temperature were less variable in 1984 than 1983. Adult
and larval herring were more abundant in 1984 than 1983. Abrupt changes in discharge and water
temperature in 1983 appeared to adversely impact spawning adults resulting in reduced numbers
of herring larvae. Quantitative = Yes. Fish (abundance, reproduction). Magnitude (CV). Rate of
Change (Reversals). Timing (Constancy).
Weyers, R., Jennings, C., & Freeman, M. (2003). Effects of Pulsed, High-Velocity Water
Flow on Larval Robust Redhorse and V-Lip Redhorse. Transactions of the American
Fisheries Society, 132(1), 84-91. doi:10.1577/15488659(2003)132<0084:EOPHVW>2.0.CO;2
Examined the effects of 0, 4, and 12 h per day of pulsed, high-velocity water flow on the egg
mortality, hatch length, final length, and survival of larval robust redhorse (Moxostoma robustum)
and V-lip redhorse (M. collapsum). Simulate pulsed, high-velocity water flow (>35 cm/s) and
stable, low-velocity water flow (<10 cm/s). Emergence was same for all treatments. Larvae
exposed to 4 and 12 h of pulsed, high-velocity water flow grew significantly more slowly and had
lower survival than those in the 0-h treatment. Quantitative=Yes. Hydro-peaking. Mesocosm.
Fish (growth, survival). Sub-daily flow, Magnitude, Duration of high flows.
Wilber, D. H. (1992). Associations between freshwater inflows and oyster productivity in
Apalachicola Bay, Florida. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 35, 179-190.
Analysis of CPUE data for theApalachicola Bay oyster fishery in relation to Apalachicola River
flows from 1960-1984, including various lag times. Oysters take two years to mature in the bay.
Low flows were correlated with low oyster CPUE two years later. Low flow leads to higher
salinities which may allow marine species to prey on newly settled oyster spat. High flows of
short duration (i.e., < 30 d) were not significantly related to oyster CPUE. Longer duration high
flows (> 100 d) associated with low oyster CPUE that same year. Quantitative = Yes. Magnitude.
Duration (1-day, 120-day minimum flows).
Wilber, D. H. (1994). The influence of Apalachicola River flows on blue crab, Callinectes
sapidus, in north Florida. Fishery Bulletin, 92, 180-188.
Apalachicola River flows and blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, harvests in and around Apalachicola
Bay, FL. River flows in one year were positively correlated with Franklin County blue crab
landings during the next year. River flows were also correlated with neighboring Wakulla County
blue crab landings with a one-year time lag but not associated with blue crab landings for the
remaining west coast of FL. Mean monthly flow from September to May, (growout period), was
most highly correlated with the following year's blue crab landings. Of 5 north Florida rivers
examined, the Apalachicola River was most highly correlated with Franklin and Wakulla County
blue crab landings. Quantitative = Yes. Magnitude (September-May). Duration (7-day, 120-day
low flow).
Wood, R. K., & Whelan, D. E. (1964). Low-flow regulation as a means of improving stream
fishing. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of the
Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 375-386.
Utility may be increased from two to five times with low-flow regulation below dams. Maintain
minimal flows and prevent maximum flows to improve fishing. Wow – have things changed. Or
have they? Quantitative=No. Conceptual. Fish (habitat). Magnitude.
Zincone Jr., L. H., & Rulifson, R. A. (1991). Instream flow and striped bass recruitment in
the lower Roanoke River, North Carolina. Rivers, 2(2), 125-137.
Moderate flows in March and April followed by lower flows in May&June led to higher
recruitment and was most similar to pre-impoundment flow regimes. Bad recruitment years had
high flow throughout the 4-month period. Quantitative = yes. Fish (recruitment, abundance).
Magnitude (seasonal).