SFS Annual Meeting

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Assessing Protistan Diversity in Ephemeral Ponds of New Jersey Pinelands using DNA Metabarcoding Ephemeral ponds are unique and ecologically valuable ecosystems that support a variety of organisms including protists. These microorganisms have important roles in nutrient cycling, primary production, and trophic interactions, but the diversity and distribution of protists in these habitats is poorly studied. Our study used 18S DNA metabarcoding to explore the protist communities in ephemeral ponds in New Jersey Pinelands. Samples were collected from 30 ponds in 2020-2023, from natural and artificial substrates. 4022 unique 18S DNA sequences were found reflecting the rich biodiversity within ponds. The most diverse and abundant protistan groups were ciliates, cercozoans, excavates, amoebozoans, peronosporomycetes, green algae, chrysophytes, eustigmatophytes, apicomplexans, and dinoflagellates. In comparison to rivers and lakes, pond assemblages had fewer diatoms and photosynthetic protists in general, while dominant groups were heterotrophs or mixotrophs. Multivariate analyses showed that protists communities are strongly impacted by water chemistry, including nutrients and chloride. We also revealed significant differences in the composition of protistan assemblages inhabiting different microhabitats. Our findings provide novel insights into the understanding of biological diversity of ponds and underscore the value of modern molecular approaches to characterize microbial community composition. This study is the first step towards obtaining an accurate picture of the microbial diversity in ephemeral ponds, which would eventually allow for making more informed conservation and protection decisions for these unique ecosystems.

Micaela Kersey (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Drexel University , mhk56@drexel.edu;

Mihaela Enache (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), New Jersey DEP , Mihaela.Enache@dep.nj.gov;

Nicholas Procopio (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), New Jersey DEP , nick.procopio@dep.nj.gov;

Patrick Burritt (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), New Jersey Pinelands Commission , Patrick.Burritt@pinelands.nj.gov;

Marina Potapova (Primary Presenter/Author), Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , mp895@drexel.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Exploring nitrogen cycling resilience: Assessing soil microbial responses in Phragmites-dominated wetlands under stress conditions Our wetlands are a precious commodity, providing invaluable ecosystem services. Still, many wetlands are experiencing tremendous natural and anthropogenic pressures, especially near the rapidly growing populations in places like the Great Salt Lake in Northern Utah. Among other things, intensive land management, industrial pollution, and invasive plants like Phragmites australis ssp. australis have greatly diminished many ecosystem functions. Despite high microbial sensitivity to stressors, little is known about the effects of such threats at the microscopic scale. Soil microbial communities significantly impact ecosystem health and biogeochemistry, but current wetland management practices traditionally give little consideration to microbial health. Microbes have a unique and irreplaceable relationship with plants and are known to confer some amount of resistance and resilience. Conversely, plant species and diversity can determine the structure and resulting function of the soil microbial community. Preserving and restoring natural systems will require understanding soil and microbial linkages. A near in-situ laboratory flux measurement technique, the flow-through reactor (FTR), was used to assess microbial responses to wetland stressors such as herbicides, salinity, and heavy metals, representing significant pressures to Utah’s wetlands. The idea that such stressors affect the soil microbial community is well-known, but their effect on nitrogen cycling and the role of plants in determining microbial response are poorly characterized. Our results show how the soil community and its function respond to environmental stressors, and such responses should be considered in global wetland restoration efforts.

Madison Brown (Primary Presenter/Author), Brigham Young University , maddilallatin@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Testing the potential for rapid phosphorus uptake and storage by aquatic hyphomycete fungi Nutrient enrichment experiments that increase nitrogen and phosphorus (P) availability have proved vital in understanding controls on microbial activity and leaf litter decomposition in stream ecosystems. Classic studies in the 1980s using 32P also highlighted the importance of leaf litter and associated microorganisms for P uptake. However, it is not fully understood how aquatic hyphomycete fungi – dominant litter decomposers in forest streams – respond to increases in dissolved P concentration. Whole-stream nutrient-addition experiments at Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory showed that, as the percent P content of litter increases, fungal biomass increases at a slower rate, indicating ‘luxury’ storage of P. In this study, we are exploring this potential for P storage by conducting P-enrichment experiments that test the short-term effects of exogenous P concentration on the biomass and P content of litter-associated fungi. After incubating two leaf species, fast-decomposing tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) and slow-decomposing white oak (Quercus alba), in a second-order stream in the Coweeta basin, we returned at early- (day 50), middle- (day 100), and late-decay (day 150) stages and added 200 ug/L of P over one-week periods, collecting litter after 0, 4, 8, 24, 72, and 168 hours of P enrichment. Litter samples are being analyzed for P content, fungal biomass (ergosterol), and phosphatase activity. We are also using nuclear magnetic resonance to characterize the P-containing compounds in the litter, particularly polyphosphate, the main form of P storage in fungi. Finally, fungal ITS metabarcoding will track potential shifts in fungal community structure over each 1-week incubation period.

Lydia McGregor Bravo (Primary Presenter/Author), The University of Alabama , lpmcgregorbravo@crimson.ua.edu;

Kevin A. Kuehn (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Southern Mississippi , kevin.kuehn@usm.edu;

Steven Thomas (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , sathomas16@ua.edu;

Jonathan P. Benstead (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , jbenstead@ua.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Are freshwater mussels more mobile when habitat is less suitable? Many freshwater organisms move to escape harsh or unfavorable environmental conditions. Unionid mussels are usually considered sedentary, but they can crawl and burrow into the substrate. The European Unio crassus is known to occur in creeks with higher flow velocity and coarser substrate, whereas Anodonta sp. occurs mostly in still or slow-flowing waters with finer substrate. We used a translocation experiment to compare movement of the two species in three different locations in a small stream in Bavaria, Germany with different depths, flow, and substrate. To better distinguish between the potential triggering effect of differences in flow velocity and substrate, an additional short-term experiment was carried out in which mussels were placed in boxes containing sand in the same three experimental locations. Preliminary results showed that the largest movement distances and highest mobility was found at the site where both the flow velocity and water depth was lower (sidearm). In the short-term experiment, Unio crassus burrowed significantly less at that sidearm site and mussels moved to the edge of the experimental boxes or escaped instead of staying at their starting point in the middle and being almost completely burrowed, which was observed at the two other sites. For Anodonta sp. burrowing depth varied more between individuals and there were no significant differences between locations. Our results suggest that lower flow velocity and depths may trigger higher mobility of Unio crassus and facilitate its survival in dynamic systems. Differences in movement and burrowing could be used as indicator for habitat suitability.

Astrid Schwalb (Primary Presenter/Author), Texas State University , schwalb@txstate.edu;

Andreas Dobler (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Technical University of Munich - Aquatic Systems Biology , a.dobler@tum.de;

Juergen Geist (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Technical University of Munich - Aquatic Systems Biology , geist@wzw.tum.de;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION CHANGES OF FRESHWATER MUSSEL SHELLS (UNIONIDAE) DURING DECOMPOSITION Freshwater mussels provide critical ecosystem services in rivers such as storing carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) in their soft-tissues and shells. After mussels die, C, N, and P leach from the shell for months to decades. Previous findings evaluating shell stoichiometry suggest shell mass and morphology could be related to shell decay rates and nutrient composition. However, there is not much information regarding how morphological characteristics, such as shell thickness (mass-to-length ratio) impacts the decomposition rates of shells and whether the rate of leaching from shell material varies between C, N, and P. We hypothesize that thinner-shelled species with lower mass-to-length ratios will have faster decomposition rates than thicker-shelled species because they are more fragile and vulnerable to breakdown. Additionally, we hypothesize that mussel shells will preferentially leach N initially over C and P due to decay of the N-rich periostracum. To test this, we deployed decomposition bags of shells of seven freshwater mussel species with varying shell thicknesses along three sites in the Sipsey River, Alabama, USA that were collected periodically over four years. As expected, thicker shells decomposed slower than thinner shells. By evaluating and comparing decomposition rates across freshwater mussel species, we can better understand whether these organisms act as short-term nutrient capacitors or longer-term nutrient sinks in freshwater systems.

Lauren Morris (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Alabama , lmmorris7@crimson.ua.edu;

Garrett Hopper (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Louisiana State University , ghopper@agcenter.lsu.edu;

Jonathan Lopez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , jwlopez@ua.edu;

Carla L. Atkinson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , carla.l.atkinson@ua.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

A Critical Review of Flood Pulse Effects on Fish Catch in River-Floodplains Floodplain rivers are vital in providing food for millions of people worldwide through fish catch. The flood pulse, a seasonal dynamic of fluctuations in river water levels, regulates fish catch in these systems and enhances productivity. However, the lack of understanding of the ecological mechanisms linking flood pulses, fish species, and fish catch makes it challenging to predict the impacts of human activities that alter natural hydrological cycles. Here, we synthesize the current understanding of the ecological mechanisms linking flood pulses, fish species, and fish catch. To address these ecological mechanisms, we first review the current understanding of flood pulse effects on fish population dynamics in river-floodplain systems and consequent interannual effects on fish catch. Then, we critically analyze the literature with respect to key aspects of the flood pulse that have more influence on fish catch and life history attributes that mediate fish responses to the flood pulse. In doing so, we propose a research framework to foster an understanding of fish catch in river-floodplain systems in a world dominated by human impacts. These dynamics are under threat from ongoing climate change, which can lead to extreme events such as floods and droughts and impact the predictability of the flood pulse. This unpredictability could result in a loss of fish biomass available for harvest, causing uncertainty for local fishers who depend on the flood pulse dynamics to harvest species.

Gabriel Borba (Primary Presenter/Author), Virginia Tech , gabrielcostaborba@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

High–frequency data collection in a small human–constructed pond shows a combination of biotic and abiotic control of environmental variables. Small human-constructed lakes are an abundant ecosystem in many parts of the world and may be the dominant lentic system in many regions. These small aquatic systems can be sites of high primary production, mineralization, and organic matter storage and thus they can be control points of material cycling on the landscape. Additionally, since these systems are small they are less buffered against environmental variation than larger systems and typically show greater extremes in environmental variation. The conditions found in small human-constructed ponds will therefore be the result of a combination of biotic and abiotic processes. We evaluated the variation in biologically-relevant environmental parameters in Chalgrove Lake, a 1.2 ha human-constructed lake with a maximum depth of 4 m and a forested, lightly developed watershed. We measured conductivity, temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, pH, and turbidity in the surface waters of the lake every 15 minutes continually for approximately a year in 2022. In addition to the continual measurements in the surface waters, we collected depth profiles of light, temperature, and dissolved oxygen concentration approximately monthly over the same time period. We found that the environmental conditions were temporally dynamic throughout the year consistent with the idea that small ponds are biologically dynamic systems, and that the variation was consistent with both strong abiotic and biotic control.

Lucy Ellis (Primary Presenter/Author), Longwood University , lucy.ellis@live.longwood.edu;

Helena Loucas (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Longwood University , helena.loucas@live.longwood.edu;

Kenneth Fortino (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Longwood University , fortinok@longwood.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Seasonality and depth variation of inorganic nutrient concentrations in Brewer Lake, Arkansas High nutrient loading and climate change threaten water quality for many reservoirs globally. Within Arkansas, Brewer Lake serves as the drinking water reservoir for over 80,000 residents. This reservoir experiences occasional algal blooms and seasonal taste/odor issues, likely due to nutrient loading. Beginning in the summer of 2020, we collected biweekly to monthly water samples from Brewer Lake to analyze ammonium, nitrate, and phosphate concentrations. Categorizing the data into calendar seasons, we compared the seasonality of these nutrients at the lake’s surface and the deepest drinking water intake, which typically is below the thermocline during stratification. For surface water, autumn and winter samples contained the highest ammonium concentrations (255.7±39.7µg/L and 222.0±137.8µg/L) followed by spring (43.8±11.4µg/L) then summer (13.6±5.7µg/L). However, the deepest intake displayed no significant differences of ammonium concentrations across seasons. For both surface and the intake, average nitrate concentrations were highest within the winter (366.0±227.9µg/L and 381.9±183.4µg/L, respectively) and spring (196.1±129.8µg/L and 245.4±177.4µg/L) whereas lowest in summer (28.2±3.7µg/L and 35.1±7.6µg/L) and autumn (57.1±20.6µg/L and 58.2±21.5µg/L). Average phosphate concentrations did not significantly differ between seasons for both the surface and the intake samples. This variation due to depth and seasonality is likely driven by external and internal sources, contrasted by sinks such as phytoplankton uptake. Continuing routine water sampling will expand upon external loading seasonality, and we will complete sediment coring within Brewer Lake to begin understanding the influence of internal loading. This information will help explain algal blooms and taste/odor events in Brewer Lake and other reservoirs.

Haley Racioppo (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Central Arkansas , hracioppo@cub.uca.edu;

Lydia Bradshaw (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Central Arkansas , lbradshaw3@cub.uca.edu;

Tori Hebert (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , tahebert@crimson.ua.edu;

Halvor Halvorson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Central Arkansas , hhalvorson@uca.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

The Impacts of Natural and Artificial Woody Shoreline Modifications on Benthic Macroinvertebrate Community Assemblages and Dynamics in a Temperate Lentic System Nearshore habitat and littoral complexity are critical organizing forces in lacustrine food webs. Anthropogenic changes to nearshore habitat directly influence macroinvertebrate communities, which represent important, but poorly-studied links between trophic levels in aquatic ecosystems. Lakeshore residential development is characterized by both a reduction in littoral coarse woody habitat (CWH) and the construction of large, simple wooden features such as ramps and docks. To better characterize the effects of lakeshore residential development on littoral ecosystem processes, we conducted a survey of macroinvertebrate assemblages in a temperate, moderately developed oligotrophic lake in New York’s Adirondack Park. Using both Hester-Dendy samplers and D-frame net sweeps, we sampled assemblages associated with natural CWH, and wooden boat ramps, and compared them across fine spatial scales to assemblages in adjacent, non-woody habitat. We found that both natural CWH and wooden boat ramps exhibited similar assemblages, and served as spatial hotspots of macroinvertebrate abundance, biodiversity, and trophic complexity, but with significant differences, including the absence of indicator taxa such as stoneflies (plecoptera) from wooden boat ramp sites. Our findings suggest that the construction of wooden features may indeed alleviate some ecological stress associated with CWH losses on developed shores, but also that these features are only partially viable surrogates for valuable natural CWH lost as a result of lakeshore residential development.

Matthew Woo (Primary Presenter/Author), Brown University , matthew_woo@brown.edu;

Thomas Detmer (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Cornell University , td389@cornell.edu;

Montana Airey (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Cornell University , ma2276@cornell.edu;

Dov Sax (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Brown University , dov_sax@brown.edu;

Peter McIntyre (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Cornell University , pbm3@cornell.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Understanding the Influence of Environmental Microbes on Crayfish Development Freshwater organisms rely on microbiota to regulate host physiology and behavior while mediating interactions with the natural world. One of the primary pathways for cultivating these microbes is through the aquascape. Often, the natural aquatic context of an organism is excluded in laboratory experimentation, in favor of more sterile conditions. Despite a large body of literature about the microbiome as a strong influence on organism fitness, we are unsure if laboratory conditions are sufficiently representative of natural microbial settings. Without a comprehensive understanding of how environmental microbe conditions are represented in ex situ experimentation, we risk having an incomplete understanding of how aquatic ecosystems may respond to a rise in anthropogenically-driven stressors. Here, juvenile white river crayfish (Procambarus acutus) from the same clutch were exposed to a set of microbially deconstructed lentic aquascapes for seven months in a laboratory setting to test how their growth, development, and gut microbiome composition reflect their microbial setting. After the trial concluded, we compared carapace length, body mass, hepatosomatic indices, coloration, and characterized the gut microbiome using 16S rRNA sequencing. The presence of unmanipulated pond water was associated with a decrease in overall body mass and an increase in red pigmentation in specimens. Gut microbiome data suggests that experimentally inoculated specimens have less similarity of microbial composition to microbially depleted treatment groups. These data suggest that the presence of a natural or naturally derived microbiome may influence the biological responses of aquatic organisms.

Jason Aguirre (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Pittsburgh , jasonaguirre222@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Shifts in Stream Ecological Function with Increasing Urrbanization Stream metabolism, the coupling of gross primary production (GPP) and ecosystem respiration (ER), is a fundamental ecological process that captures the predominant bioenergetics of stream ecosystems. Frequent and intense flow events in urban creeks can scour stream beds and increase turbidity, which can constrain stream community development and reduce metabolic rates. Alternatively, increased light and energetic subsidies, including nutrients and allochthonous carbon, from the surrounding terrestrial landscape can amplify stream metabolism. In this study, we ask two questions: 1) how does stream metabolism respond to hydrologic disturbances in urbanized streams, and 2) how does this response vary across watershed and stream characteristics? Using five years of high-frequency dissolved oxygen, temperature, and discharge data, we estimated daily GPP and ER across 12 urban creeks in watersheds ranging in size from 15-168 km2 in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. We used fixed effects models to estimate the seasonal association between light, temperature, discharge, and stream metabolism. We additionally investigated the metabolic response to hydrologic disturbances by estimating the magnitude of change in GPP and ER following storms. The results demonstrate that seasonal GPP and ER were primarily driven by light and temperature regimes. Flow disturbances did not significantly influence seasonal patterns. At the storm time scale, we observed a persistent decrease in GPP following summer storms, and, in contrast, ER remained resistant to hydrologic disturbances. Overall, the results imply that urbanization shifts creeks towards highly productive regimes frequently disturbed by summer stormflows.

Rachel Scarlett (Primary Presenter/Author), Georgia State University , rscarlett@gsu.edu;

Jacob Hosen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Purdue University , jhosen@purdue.edu;

Sandra Clinton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of North Carolina Charlotte , sclinto1@uncc.edu;

Suresh Rao (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Purdue University , SureshRao@purdue.edu ;

Sara McMillan (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Iowa State University , swmcmill@iastate.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

QUANTIFYING THE IMPACTS OF TRADITIONAL ROAD SALTS VS. ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES ON NITRATE REMOVAL VIA DENITRIFICATION IN URBAN STREAMS Increasing urbanization and the resultant expansion in impervious surface cover increases runoff of contaminants and water into nearby streams. Specifically, runoff from winter road salt application can increase stream salinity and impact local water quality. Importantly, eco-friendly alternatives are becoming more common; however, little is known regarding the impacts of traditional and alternative road salt application on ecosystem function, including processes like denitrification. Here, we sought to compare nitrate removal via denitrification between two urban streams of varying background conductivity to understand the impacts of road salts and eco-friendly alternatives on ecosystem function. We conducted sacrificial assays with stream sediments collected from two streams with low and high conductivity, respectively, treated with low and high levels of both traditional road salts and beet juice alternatives. Preliminary results suggest the additional carbon provided by eco-friendly alternatives can stimulate denitrification rates, thus increasing nitrate removal. The results of this study will provide further understanding of road salt impact on important ecological processes, as well as assessing if “eco-friendly” alternatives have unexpected impacts on ecosystem functions. The data and results will also inform road salt usage as well as protection and conservation efforts towards urban streams.

Brynnen Beck (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Arkansas , brynnenbeck@gmail.com;

Shannon Speir (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , slspeir@uark.edu;

Claire Meara (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , cmmeara@uark.edu;

Caroline Anscombe (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , anscombe@uark.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

THE EFFECT OF COMMON ROAD SALTS AND ORGANIC ALTERNATIVES ON SEDIMENT MICROBIAL RESPIRATION IN URBAN STREAMS Impervious surfaces have increased due to urbanization, resulting in ice accumulation and dangerous driving conditions. As a result, impervious surfaces are often treated with salt to make road conditions safer. However, this has significant impacts on water quality when salt enters urban streams during runoff events and has been shown to have detrimental effects to various ecosystem processes. Thus, alternatives, such as using organic additives, like beet juice, have been introduced to decrease the amount of salt applied. Yet, there are few studies exploring the tradeoffs of using “environmentally friendly” alternatives. With the addition of beet juice comes the addition of carbon and nutrients; yet, the ecosystem impacts of carbon and nutrient pulses following application are unknown. Here, we compared the response of microbial respiration rates within and between two urban streams of differing base conductivity levels with the addition of traditional road salts (NaCl) and beet-derived deicers. We collected sediments from two urban streams in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to conduct assays in the winter and spring to assess the impacts of seasonal salt holdover on respiration rates. Preliminary results indicate that addition of carbon with beet de-icers can increase sediment respiration rates. By understanding the response to both traditional and “eco-friendly” deicing compounds, we can gain a further understanding of the ecosystem-scale effects and tradeoffs of winter de-icing treatments.

Claire Meara (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Arkansas , clairemeara@gmail.com;

Shannon Speir (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , slspeir@uark.edu;

Brynnen Beck (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , brynnenbeck@gmail.com;

Caroline Anscombe (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , anscombe@uark.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

HOW SEDIMENTATION AND UREA INFLUENCE SULFUR CYCLING IN URBAN AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS In human-impacted ecosystems, including systems impacted by salinization and agricultural runoff, sedimentation and increased runoff of urea are common stressors that may exacerbate existing stressors. Urban and agricultural impacted streams may also contain higher sulfate concentrations than expected in freshwaters. We hypothesized that as sedimentation and urea concentrations increased in sulfate-impacted streams, anoxic conditions would also increase, leading to higher sulfate reduction and the accumulation of sulfide. We collected water samples to analyze the concentrations of sulfate and hydrogen sulfide from experimental stream systems fed by an urban stormwater stream (Allerton Creek, Kent, OH, USA) at the end of a three-week experiment. Each of the 30 experimental streams received 1 of 5 urea treatments (0, 30, 60, 120, 240 ug/L) through a continuous dripper system and one of five sediment treatments (0, 7, 14, 21, 28 g/L). Most streams, regardless of treatment, reached 0 mg/L of dissolved oxygen (DO) by the second day of the experiment. Initial samples contained high sulfide concentrations >250 umol/L. We are further exploring the relationships between urea treatments, sedimentation treatments, DO, and sulfur species concentrations. Understanding the impact anthropogenic inputs of urea and sediment have on stream sulfur cycling is important for expanding our knowledge of how multiple stressors can impact the biogeochemistry of urban aquatic ecosystems.

Nora Haddon (Primary Presenter/Author), Kent State University , rockymtngirl04@gmail.com;

Adriana Cooper (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), kent state university , acoope54@kent.edu;

Erin Eberhard (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State Univeristy , ekeberha@mtu.edu;

Claire Ebner (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , cebner3@kent.edu;

Talia Pope (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , tpope8@kent.edu;

David Costello (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , dcostel3@kent.edu;

Lauren Kinsman-Costello (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , lkinsman@kent.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

URBAN TREE BIOACCUMULATION OF MICROPLASTICS IN A PUBLIC PARK Plastic debris is a pervasive pollutant in urban parks and waterways. Microplastics (plastic debris smaller than 5-mm) can originate from a variety of sources including personal care products, synthetic fibers from clothing, pre-production pellets from manufacturing, and fragments of larger plastic debris that slowly degrade into smaller pieces over time. Microplastics can easily pass through water filtration systems due to their size, and ultimately end up in our local waterways. As a result, much of the research about microplastics in the environment has focused on their presence in surface waters. Currently, very little is known about the impacts of microplastics on terrestrial organisms and overall watershed health. In Philadelphia’s public parks, where litter (plastic bags, bottles, food containers, etc.) is prevalent, the presence of microplastics in soil is assumed to exceed that of nearby undeveloped plots. However, the presence of microplastics in trees would represent a dramatic shift in our conceptualization of how plastic pollution moves through ecosystems. Based on our literature search, this proposed interruption in the biogeochemical cycle of plastic pollutants has not been investigated prior to our study. We intend to sample the sap from multiple deciduous tree species in a heavily littered public park in Philadelphia. If we observe microplastics in these trees, our conceptual model of how microplastics move from terrestrial sources to ultimate sinks would fundamentally change.

Tracey Curran (Primary Presenter/Author), The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , tlc74@drexel.edu;

Timothy Maguire (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , tjm438@drexel.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Road Salt Effects on Vermont Benthic Macroinvertebrate Community Composition In urban streams, macroinvertebrate assemblages often have low diversity and are dominated by pollution-tolerant taxa. However, the co-occurence of various physical and chemical changes associated with the urban stream syndrome make it difficult to identify particular causes. In the Burlington, Vermont metropolitan area, headwater urban streams have lower Shannon diversity and EPT richness than their forested counterparts based on a study of eight stream sites along an urbanization gradient. Alongside these changes in macroinvertebrate community composition, these headwater urban streams have elevated chloride concentrations compared to forested streams in the area, frequently exceeding the EPA chronic criterion (230 mg/L), as a result of deicing salt application. To investigate how salinity in particular may contribute to these changes, a mesocosm experiment was conducted on invertebrates collected from one urban stream and one forested stream, which were then placed together to incorporate both sensitive and tolerant taxa. Similar invertebrate communities were introduced to each of 28 mesocosms across four different concentrations of sodium chloride chosen to reflect chloride concentrations present in field sites. The mesocosm system was left to run for 21 days before collecting all surviving invertebrates for subsequent identification to the lowest practical taxonomic level, typically genus. By comparing patterns of macroinvertebrate community composition between these field and laboratory components, we can better understand how road salt application is affecting these stream ecosystems.

Liza Toll (Primary Presenter/Author), Middlebury College , etoll@middlebury.edu;

Natalie Montano (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , nmmontano@outlook.com;

Emma Neill (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , neill.emmad@gmail.com;

Kayley Porter (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , kporter@middlebury.edu;

A.J. Rossbach (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , arossbach@middlebury.edu;

Elle Thompson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , ellat@middlebury.edu;

Molly Costanza-Robinson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , mcostanz@middlebury.edu;

Eric Moody (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Middlebury College , erickmoody@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Investigating the Impact of Environmental Conditions on Metal-Microbe Dynamics in Wetlands Wetlands are vital aquatic habitats susceptible to metal contamination, leading to degradation and wildlife metal poisoning. Despite these adverse effects, uncertainties persist regarding the biological controls on metal bioavailability within wetland ecosystems. Wetlands harbor key microbial species that can facilitate the fate of these metals, reducing or enhancing their bioavailability and ecosystem impact. Environmental factors such as nutrients and light exposure are well known to alter microbial processes and shift their community composition. However, there is less knowledge of their impact on the metal - microbial interactions within a wetland. Understanding these controls can help conserve, restore, and manage the ecosystem. Here we pose the question: How do these environmental variables affect the capability of microbial communities to alter the fate of metals in wetlands? Using two freshwater wetlands— a constructed wetland and a natural depression wetland—located in South Carolina, USA, we propose two experiments to investigate the influence on copper and zinc concentrations in a microcosm-based study. In one experiment we establish a macronutrient gradient (nitrate and phosphate), and in the other, we manipulate the duration of sunlight. After microbial communities acclimate, we spike a set of microcosms with copper and zinc. We hypothesize that macronutrient ratios and light exposure will shift microbial community taxonomic and functional composition, indirectly influencing the predominant reactions with metals in the environment. This research will advance our understanding of mitigating the detrimental impacts of metal contamination in wetlands, preserving their ecological integrity and their ecosystem services.

Marilee Hoyle (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , marilee.hoyle@uga.edu;

Raven Bier (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , rbier@srel.uga.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

IDENTIFYING TRADEOFFS IN ECOSYSTEM SERVICES DUE TO RESTORATION PRACTICES IN RESTORED AGRICULTURAL WETLANDS Intensification of agriculture within the lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB) has dramatically altered wetland environments and expanded inorganic fertilizer use, resulting in excess nutrients being transported across the landscape and downstream to the Gulf of Mexico. A major goal of the USDA Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP), now the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP), is the restoration of wetland ecosystem services; however, the environmental conditions that optimize nutrient retention and minimize greenhouse gas fluxes are poorly understood. This study is identifying tradeoffs in these ecosystem services in restored agricultural wetlands due to different hydrologic and vegetation restoration practices. We are studying WRP/WREP easements in western Tennessee to identify the environmental conditions that control these biogeochemical transfer pathways and determine the environmental conditions and restoration practices that optimize nutrient and greenhouse gas flux rates. Here we present initial data investigating nutrient and greenhouse gas flux rates in restored easements and discuss potential tradeoffs in services. This work will inform how future restorations could be optimized to ensure the long-term functional success of federal restoration programs in the face of a changing climate.

Zoe Porter (Primary Presenter/Author), Tennessee Tech University , zcporter42@tntech.edu;

Justin Murdock (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Tennessee Technological University , jnmurdock@tntech.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

CONTEXT DEPENDENT EFFECTS OF WETLAND RESTORATION ON TERRESTRIAL CONSUMERS Spatial subsidies create cross-ecosystem trophic links that maintain productivity and diversity in recipient ecosystems. However, as humans alter the landscape, these subsidy transfers are hindered. Restoration of habitats may aid in reestablishing cross-ecosystem trophic linkages, but its effect may depend on surrounding landscape contexts. Here, we show that constructed wetlands interact with the surrounding landscape to enhance the activity of terrestrial consumers (bats) by providing emerging aquatic insects as a potential prey resource. We measured seasonal emergence of aquatic insects and bat activities at two sites within an urban park in North Carolina, in which restored (wetland & stream) and control (stream only) locations were paired. The two sites had contrasting landscape features characterized by open and closed forest canopies. At each site, emergence traps were deployed once a month from 2021 to 2023 along with continuous monitoring of bat activity with bat detectors. Our data suggests that bat activity was highest at the site with both a wetland and stream in the open site. We observed high asynchrony of emergence timing between the streams and wetlands, likely extending the temporal window of possible subsidy transfers at restored locations. However, the bat response to wetland restoration was unclear at the closed site. The site-specific effect of wetland construction suggests that the placement of restored habitats may influence how well it will perform its desired purpose, thus, restoration management should consider landscape contexts of restoration projects depending on the goals set in place.

Mason Ibrahim (Primary Presenter/Author), University of North Carolina Greensboro , masonibrahi@gmail.com;

Rada Petric (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill , rpetric@unc.edu;

Charlie Wahl (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), United States Geological Survey , cwahl@usgs.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Effects of Microtopography on Phosphorus Storage at a Restored Wetland Agricultural runoff is a major source of increased phosphorus (P) loading into Lake Erie, potentially fueling harmful algal blooms. Converting farmland into restored wetlands is one way to limit runoff of excess P. However, legacy P in soils may be released into surface waters. To assess the potential for legacy soil P release and locate potential nutrient release hot spots, we sampled soils from a restored wetland two years after construction. The 25-acre H2Ohio Trumbull Creek Wetland Restoration Project in Northeast Ohio, USA, features constructed hummock and hollow microtopography in dry uplands and lowland pools. We collected 48 soil samples from four pools and two upland areas and measured water-extractable phosphate and Mehlich-3 P, iron, and aluminum. The Mehlich-3 extractant targets bioavailable P. A Soil Phosphate Sorption Capacity metric, based on the ratio of phosphorus to iron and aluminum in Mehlich-3 extractions, indicates that all sampled soils have capacity to sorb phosphate. Sorption capacity in sediments collected from flooded pools was twice as high as upland soils, corresponding to 5x higher iron content. Bioavailable P concentrations (mg P/kg soil) for pools, hummocks, and hollows were found to be (9.69±6.48), (10.61±6.14) and (7.64±5.98), respectively (mean±sd). Water extractable P concentrations in (mg P/kg soil) for the pools, hummocks, and hollows were found to be (0.13±0.08), (0.26±0.11) and (0.14±0.09), respectively (mean±sd). These results indicate that soils in this restored wetland can aid in landscape-level ecosystem services including nutrient retention.

Emily Campbell (Primary Presenter/Author), Kent State University , ecampb30@kent.edu;

Michael Back (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent state university , mback@kent.edu;

Talia Pope (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , tpope8@kent.edu;

Grace Watson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , gwatson4@kent.edu;

Hana Esber (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), kent state university , hesber@kent.edu;

Adriana Cooper (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), kent state university , acoope54@kent.edu;

Lauren Kinsman-Costello (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kent State University , lkinsman@kent.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

The role of wet meadows in altering post-fire stream biogeochemistry: Using nutrient diffusing substrates to evaluate limitations on periphyton production Severe wildfire has the potential to alter ecosystem processes including nutrient cycling and primary production in streams. While nitrogen (N) limitation is common in undisturbed streams, nutrients can remain elevated for decades following wildfire and can impact downstream water quality, aquatic habitat, and food webs. Wetland features such as wet meadows are important hotspots of biogeochemical activity and may play a role in retaining elevated post-fire nutrients. In this study, nutrient diffusing substrates amended with nitrogen (N) and phosphorous (P) were deployed in two burned watersheds and one unburned watershed within the Cameron Peak Fire scar to examine nutrient limitation of periphyton up and downstream of wet meadows. In the unburned stream, periphyton were limited by N and P both above and below a wet meadow. In contrast, in one N-enriched burned stream, periphyton were not nutrient limited upstream, but were N and P limited downstream of a meadow. This pattern was absent in the second burned stream, but overall our preliminary results suggest that wet meadows have the capacity to reset nutrient limitations following wildfire. As wildfire frequency and severity increase throughout the western US, strategies to mitigate their impacts on aquatic ecosystems are needed. Techniques such as Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs) are increasingly popular in stream restoration, however little is known about their efficacy in post-fire environments. Future study directions include testing nutrient diffusing substrates above and below BDA structures to investigate the consequences of this restoration approach on post-fire nutrient retention.

Alyssa Graziano (Primary Presenter/Author), Colorado State University , alyssa.graziano@colostate.edu;

Allison Rhea (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Colorado Forest Restoration Institute , allison.rhea@colostate.edu;

Timothy Fegel (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), US Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station , timothy.fegel@usda.gov;

Daniel Preston (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Colorado State University , dan.preston@colostate.edu;

Charles Rhoades (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), US Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station , charles.c.rhoades@usda.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Wetlands to Combat Drought: Strengthening Drought Preparedness on the Coeur d’Alene Reservation (Idaho) through Wetland Restoration and Monitoring The people of the Schitsu’umsh Tribe have depended on wetland plants and animals for thousands of years. Not only have 65% of the wetlands once found here been lost since non-Indian settlement began in the 1800’s, but more and more the Reservation experiences exceptional heat and drought conditions as a result of climate change. Thus, there is an urgent need to build up Tribal drought resilience that protects Tribal water resources in a proactive and culturally appropriate manner. We propose a suite of constructed and restored wetlands along Reservation streams to build Tribal capacity around drought resilience. Specifically, we will draw on Tribal indigenous knowledge, wetland science, and significant on-the-ground experience to (1) restore capacity of wetlands to mitigate drought, (2) enhance fish refugia, (3) provide habitat for culturally important wetland plant and wildlife species, and (4) enhance cultural services.

Charlie Kloppenburg (Primary Presenter/Author), Clemson University , ckloppe@clemson.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

TIGHTENING THE LOOSE EQUILIBRIUM CONCEPT: NEW INSIGHT FROM FISH, INSECTS, AND ALGAE IN NEON STREAMS Under the loose equilibrium hypothesis, assemblage structure is expected to vary through time, but also to remain anchored to a strong, stable central tendency. When examined with multivariate ordination plots, loose equilibrium predicts that an assemblage will shift in an idiosyncratic manner around a centroid, without exhibiting directional movement from one stable state to another. Using multiple years (2015-2022) of data from 17 National Ecological Observatory Network streams, we tested the Loose Equilibrium hypothesis for fishes, insects, and algae. Little or no evidence of directional movement was detected for fishes or insects, consistent with loose equilibrium. Potential evidence of directional movement was, however, detected for some algal assemblages. Results suggest that fish and insect assemblages are largely stable in the study streams, while algae are more transitory. Additionally, we demonstrate the importance of accounting for sample season, which strongly influences the perception of loose equilibrium but was not addressed in prior studies.

Breanna Ondich (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Georgia , breanna.ondich@uga.edu;

Hope Romero (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of San Diego , hoperomero@sandiego.edu;

Ayi Ajavon (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia Aquarium , ayi.j.ajavon@gmail.com;

Liz Ortiz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Florida International University , lorti080@fiu.edu;

Lauren Emer (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Florida International University , lemer006@fiu.edu;

Ariana Dionisio (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), King County, WA , abdionisio27@gmail.com;

Raquel Gonzalez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kennesaw State University , raquel.gonzalez.cap@gmail.com;

Deandre Presswood (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia State University , deandrepresswood@gmail.com;

Champagne Cunningham (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Tennessee State University , champagne.cunningham@gmail.com;

Ciashia Shiongyaj (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Bio-Techne , shiongyc10@gmail.com;

Makayla Haggard (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources , mhaggard2017@gmail.com;

Viviana Bravo (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , vivi.bravo18@gmail.com;

Mariely Vega-Gómez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), North Carolina State University , mvega2@ncsu.edu;

Donya Mohamed (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , donyamohamed63@gmail.com;

Carla López Lloreda (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , carlalopez@vt.edu;

Hazel Quarterman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , quartermanhazel@gmail.com;

Tyler Allen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Alta Sciences , tylerallen161@gmail.com;

Alex Troutman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Sea Grant Knauss Fellow , alexk.troutman@gmail.com;

Patina Mendez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of California, Berkeley , patina.mendez@berkeley.edu;

Daniel McGarvey (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Center for Environmental Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University , djmcgarvey@vcu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

EFFECTS OF ALTERED PRECIPITATION ON THE STRUCTURE OF AQUATIC AND TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES: PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM AN ONGOING META-ANALYSIS Changes in precipitation patterns due to climate change is a growing threat to global biodiversity and ecosystem functions. While these changes can affect community structure by altering species diversity and shifting species interactions, their effects can vary among taxonomic groups and trophic levels. To date, however, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these distinct responses is limited. To test community-level responses to altered precipitation patterns, we conducted a meta-analysis focused on plant and animal communities from terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Here, we synthesize 981 observations worldwide and show that most studies on community-level responses to precipitation changes were conducted in Asia (49.5%), Europe (29.1%), and North America (21.4%). To date, only a small number of studies have focused on aquatic invertebrates (4.2% of the total case studies). In terrestrial habitats, we found significant decreases in the diversity of plants and soil invertebrates in response to decreased precipitation and vice versa. In addition, in aquatic habitats, benthic macroinvertebrate diversity significantly decreased in response to decreased precipitation. Precipitation changes affect aquatic and terrestrial communities differently since aquatic invertebrates are more strongly and negatively affected than soil invertebrates and plants in decreased precipitation conditions. These approaches can be used to identify and address knowledge gaps in community-level responses to precipitation changes. Our findings can be applied to real-world conservation and policymaking as changes in community structure and functions are likely to affect ecosystem services and human well-being.

Millaniyage Udari Hansika Peiris (Primary Presenter/Author), Rutgers University - Camden , mup6@camden.rutgers.edu;

Angélica L. González (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Rutgers University - Camden , angelica.gonzalez@rutgers.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Revisiting the impact of habitat complexity on predator-prey interactions with an emphasis on predator identity and size structure Habitat complexity can influence the outcome of predator-prey interactions, alter trophic cascades, and impact patterns of biodiversity and ecosystem function, and this is particularly true in pond ecosystems. Habitat complexity, in part, encompasses the density, diversity, and distribution of structural habitat elements in an ecosystem and despite decades of research examining the role of habitat complexity on species interactions, many questions remain to be addressed. Using a series of mesocosm and laboratory behavioral experiments, we examined the interplay between the density, architecture, arrangement and connectivity of structural habitat elements and predator size-structure and identity on the outcome of predator-prey interactions in a guild of aquatic insect predators. Predators included a diving beetle, Cybister fimbriolatus, and a dragonfly, Anax junius, and dragonfly prey were Sympetrum semicinctum. Different levels of structural habitat complexity were achieved by manipulating the density and spatial arrangement of two common aquatic plants, narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) and mermaid weed (Proserpinaca palustris). There were no significant effects of structural habitat complexity on the outcome of predator-prey interactions. Interestingly there was a significant interaction between habitat connectivity and predator identity such that survival of prey was greater at low vs. high levels of habitat connectivity in the presence of A. junius but not when C. fimbiolatus were present. Behavioral experiments suggest that higher levels of activity in C. fimbiolatus may modify the impact of habitat connectivity on prey survival. These results illuminate how differences in predator behavior can influence the impact of habitat complexity on predator-prey interactions.

Patrick Crumrine (Primary Presenter/Author), Rowan University , crumrine@rowan.edu;

Camila Cohen Suarez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Virginia , cc5gxa@virginia.edu;

Caleb Freeman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Howard University , caleb.freeman@bison.howard.edu;

Anna Gilmore (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Rockhurst University , annaggilmore@gmail.com;

Dimitri Gonzalez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Wittenberg University , gonzalezd@wittenberg.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Impact of Invasive Plant Species on Benthic Headwater Stream Communities Invasive terrestrial plant species, such as Lonicera maackii (Amur honeysuckle) and Rosa multiflora (Multiflora rose), can outcompete other native terrestrial plants for resources. When these taxa invade riparian habitats, they can also impact aquatic macroinvertebrate communities and nutrient availability in streams, but effects on other aspects of aquatic ecosystems are unknown. The primary objective of this study was to determine if invasive plant species were impacting benthic macroinvertebrate and periphyton community structure in headwater stream systems at the Ohio Northern University Metzger Nature Center (Tuscarawas County, Ohio, USA). Twenty-five sites along these headwater stream systems were assessed for physical and chemical parameters, benthic macroinvertebrates, periphyton, and riparian vegetation. Results will be used to determine if changes in benthic communities are associated with the presence of invasive plants in riparian zones.

Leslie Riley (Primary Presenter/Author), Ohio Northern University , l-riley.1@onu.edu;

Joseph Lepard (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , j-lepard.1@onu.edu;

Katelin Denslow (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , k-denslow@onu.edu;

Kotaro Tsuji (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , k-tsuji@onu.edu;

Katherine Krynak (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , k-krynak@onu.edu;

Elizabeth Tristano (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , e-tristano@onu.edu;

Robert Verb (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , r-verb@onu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Crayfish Diversity within the Ogeechee River Basin Crayfish are known for being a popular food source for people living in the southeastern United States, but they also play a crucial role in their native environments. With the growing knowledge of the importance of crayfish within aquatic ecosystems, more people are becoming aware of the need for more crayfish conservation in North America. Approximately half of the crayfish species in North America are either vulnerable, threatened, endangered, or possibly extinct due to the combined effects of habitat degradation, range limitation, and the introduction of invasive species. One such species is the Ogeechee Crayfish (Procambarus petersi), an endemic species to the Ogeechee River Basin (ORB) currently listed as vulnerable by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Our proposed study will examine differences in crayfish community structure in response to shifting habitat characters throughout the ORB. Crayfish will be systematically sampled to determine their distributions, habitat preferences, and relative species abundance. Sampling will be stratified across the HUC-10 watersheds within the Ogeechee Basin with further categorization of sample sites by stream order. Both active and passive sampling methods will be used to collect crayfish and environmental and biological parameters will be collected to determine habitat preference. Gill tissue will be taken from captured samples to construct phylogenetic trees to elucidate phylogenetic relationships. Relatively little research has been conducted on the crayfish community within the ORB, making our potential findings important to the future conservation of crayfish in the ORB and the greater Southeast United States.

Reginald Turner (Primary Presenter/Author), Georgia Southern University , rt09934@georgiasouthern.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Projecting survival and growth of Eastern Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) across an elevational gradient in the Southern Appalachian Mountains Bioenergetic modelling, which employs an energy balance equation to estimate daily energy gains via consumption and losses via respiration and waste, can be used to understand organismal survival and growth. We provide an example of bioenergetic modeling on an ecologically and economically important native species—the Eastern brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). We model survival, growth, and end-of-the-year mass for adults (age 2) at 129 sites in southern Appalachia. Mean catchment elevation ranged from 125 to 1258 meters above sea level while annual mean temperature ranged from 9.9°C to 19.0°C across sites in 2018. Survival and growth probabilities increased with elevation, matching putative warm-edge range limits. We projected energy deficits or reduced energy gains during summer months when compared to other seasons. We plan to expand projections to include other age cohorts to better understand growth at various life stages. This application is practical to assess species vulnerability to temperature alterations, both spatially and temporally.

Karmann Kessler (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Texas- San Antonio , karmann.kessler@utsa.edu;

Matthew Troia (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Texas- San Antonio , matthew.troia@utsa.edu;

Xingli Giam (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Tennessee , xgiam@utk.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

BIOFILM EXPOSURE TO COPPER: BIOACCUMULATION AND EFFECTS ON FATTY ACID PROFILES AND MICROMEIOFAUNA TAXONOMIC COMPOSITION Biofilms host a diverse array of organisms, including the less-studied micromeiofauna that may be affected by environmental stresses. Small animals composing the micromeiofauna (rotifers, zooflagellates, heliozoans, ciliates, amoebas, etc.) vary in size from 2 µm to 2 mm and live freely or within the biofilm matrix colonizing substrate. Integral to aquatic ecosystems, micromeiofauna communities play vital roles in biofilms. Despite their significance, studies on the impact of contaminants on biofilms predominantly focus on autotrophic and bacterial taxa, often overlooking the micromeiofauna. Given their widespread distribution, ease of sampling, and responsiveness to environmental changes, the organisms composing the micromeiofauna represent potential bioindicators of contamination or disturbances. However, their full potential as bioindicators remains underexplored. In this study, a microcosm experiment was conducted to examine the effects of copper on the biodiversity and taxonomic composition of biofilm micromeiofauna. Additionally, we assessed changes in the fatty acid profile of the biofilm and measured copper bioaccumulation. We focused on copper because this metal is known to have a high impact on primary producers in biofilms. We exposed biofilms collected from a stream located in Quebec City (Canada) for a duration of 7, 14, 21 and 28 days and at five different copper concentrations ranging from 0.1 µM to 10 µM. The preliminary results revealed that copper modified the taxonomic composition of the micromeiofauna, resulting in a decrease in ciliates and zooflagellates density.

Eugenie Gardebled (Primary Presenter/Author), Institut National de la recherche Scientifique, Centre Eau Terre Environnement , eugenie.gardebled@inrs.ca;

Claude Fortin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Institut National de la recherche Scientifique, Centre Eau Terre Environnement , claude.fortin@inrs.ca;

Jacky Vedrenne (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), l'Institut national de recherche pour l'agriculture, l'alimentation et l'environnement, INRAE , jacky.vedrenne@inrae.fr;

Isabelle Lavoie (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Eau Terre Environnement , isabelle.lavoie@inrs.ca;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

DETECTING THE BIOMAGNIFICATION OF PERFLUOROOCTANOIC ACID (PFOA) IN STREAM ECOSYSTEMS WITH CLOSE PROXIMITY TO SKI TRAILS Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is an emerging contaminant that can bioaccumulate in freshwater ecosystems. One source of PFOA is fluorinated Nordic ski wax compounds suspended in spring snowmelt from trail systems adjacent to streams. Little is known about the potential for ski wax runoff to affect PFOA biomagnification in aquatic food webs, despite 40 out of 50 U.S. states having documented, often well-used, ski trails. Our study considers how bioaccumulation and biomagnification of PFOA occurs, the spatial and temporal extents of current and future studies, and the methodology employed. We develop a framework for understanding whether PFOA concentrations in predatory macroinvertebrates can be detected using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for samples from streams influenced by ski wax runoff (within 1 km of trails), and control streams (10 km from any trails). Stream water, benthic biofilm, and nonpredatory and predatory macroinvertebrates are used to quantify biomagnification along the food chain. We use alpine streams in southwestern Montana, a region that is snow-covered for 7 months annually and supportive of a growing community of recreational and professional skiers as a model location for applying this framework. Our research may have important implications for understanding the lasting impacts of PFOA chemicals on ecosystems, especially in historically rural areas where populations are rising. Future research should consider distance of water bodies from trails, ski season duration, and skiing pressure to further inform guidelines about the impacts of recreational activities on streams.

Lydia J. L. Bushey (Primary Presenter/Author), Montana State University , lydia.bushey17@gmail.com;

Anna C. French (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Montana State University , annafrench.mn@gmail.com;

Samuel F. Fritz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Montana State University , samuel.fritz2@student.montana.edu;

Lindsey Albertson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Montana State University , lindsey.albertson@montana.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

SPATIAL VARIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL DRIVERS OF METHYLMERCURY IN MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITIES IN A COMPLEX RIVER BASIN Mercury (Hg) is a global contaminant with its toxic organic form (methylmercury; MeHg) biomagnifying in food webs. Inputs of Hg to aquatic systems are predominately atmospheric, and ecotoxicologists have identified factors (e.g., water chemistry, extent of watershed forest cover) that influence river food web sensitivity to MeHg biomagnification. However, the relative strength of factors in determining river food web MeHg contamination across broad spatial scales remains unknown. We assessed spatial variation and environmental factors driving MeHg concentrations in benthic macroinvertebrate (BMI) communities across a complex river basin (Colorado River basin, Texas, USA) which exhibits pronounced spatial gradients in land use and land cover (LULC) and water chemistry. BMIs and water chemistry were collected from 20 reaches from five rivers in the basin, and LULC composition for each reach was determined at riparian and whole watershed scales. BMIs were analyzed for MeHg and stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen. There were pronounced gradients in LULC and water chemistry across the basin, with reaches in two rivers (Concho and Pedernales) having greater forest cover. In addition, the Concho and upper Colorado river study reaches exhibited higher nutrients and salinity when compared to other study reaches. Analysis of BMIs indicates that MeHg varied among study reaches. This study provides a better understanding of the relative strength of local- and watershed-scale factors influencing MeHg contamination of food webs in spatially complex drainages and provides a foundation to assess sensitivity of specific river reaches to MeHg contamination.

Waverly Wadsworth (Primary Presenter/Author), Texas State University , xbb6@txstate.edu;

Weston Nowlin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas State University , wnowlin@txstate.edu;

Todd Steissberg (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Army Corp of Engineers , todd.e.steissberg@erdc.dren.mil;

Matthew Chumchal (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas Christian University , m.m.chumchal@tcu.edu;

Jessica Dutton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas State University , jdutton@txstate.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Rapid Uptake of Four Structurally Different PFAS in Xenopus Laevis Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of synthetic chemicals that have become significant environmental pollutants. PFAS are used in the manufacturing of a host of products including food packaging, nonstick pans, and personal care products. PFAS are uniquely persistent in the environment due to their carbon fluorine bond that prevents degradation and are toxic to aquatic organisms. Amphibians are a useful model for studying the uptake of PFAS because of their rapid uptake rates. The early hours of uptake have not been thoroughly sampled, despite that PFOA and PFOS are known to reach steady state in R. pipiens after 5 and 48 hours of exposure, respectively and PFHxS and 6:2 FTS reach steady state by 10 days. Furthermore, there are few studies investigating the link between PFAS and Xenopus laevis despite their use as a PFAS toxicity model. The aim of the present study was to establish larval uptake rates in X. laevis for 4 PFAS that differ in chain length and functional groups, with emphasis on early uptake rates. We found that PFOS was the only PFAS to bioaccumulate (nominal BCF at 10 ppm = 12) and the BCFs for PFHxS, PFOA, and GenX were all below 1. In addition, X. laevis exposed to PFOS reached steady state in 24 hours which is faster than R. pipiens exposed to the same concentrations. Future studies are needed to further elucidate this difference and determine why X. laevis accumulate PFOS more rapidly compared to R. pipiens.

Meredith Scherer (Primary Presenter/Author), Purdue University , mnscherer10@gmail.com;

Tyler Hoskins (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Purdue University , tdhoskin@purdue.edu;

Youn Jeong Choi (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Purdue University , choi226@purdue.edu;

Linda Lee (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Purdue University , lslee@purdue.edu;

Jonathan Haselman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), US EPA , haselman.jon@epa.gov;

Sigmund Degitz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), US EPA , Degitz.Sigmund@epa.gov;

Maria Sepulveda (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Purdue University , mssepulv@purdue.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

FIRST REPORT ON MICROPLASTIC POLLUTION IN DIFFERENT AQUATIC WATERS, SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA Plastic pollution has become a global concern due to the persistence use and widespread of plastics in the environment. Their effects on aquatic ecosystem and human health have continuously been subject matter especially in underdeveloped countries. The research investigates the presence, abundance and types of microplastics (MPs) in water and fishes of five (5) socio-economical important water bodies in Southwestern Nigeria. Water and fish samples were monthly obtained (between December, 2022 and December, 2023) from Ogun River (freshwater), Majidun River (estuarine), Iwopin River (coastal water) Lekki and Epe Lagoon (marine) using 250ml amber bottle which were pre-cleaned and rinsed with deionized water to remove any contaminants, and nets (hand and gill) respectively. One hundred and thirty (130) water samples were collected and commercially available fish species: Kribia kribensis, Chrysichthes filamentous, Galeoides decadactylus, Chrysichthes nigrodigitatus, Elops Saurus, Oreochromis niloticus, Chrysichthes niloticus, Caranx hippos, Monodactylus sebae were tested using standard procedures of Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Results indicated a widespread of microplastics in the water bodies with high prevalence of polypropylene, ethylene propylene, polychloroprene (Neoprene) in the water. Meanwhile, the fish species recorded microplastics polymer of Polyacrylamide, polyvinyl alcohol, polybutylene terephthalate, polyaramid and Neoprene with highest number found in Galeoides decadactylus. High prevalence of MPs in this study emphasized the need for targeted interventions to regulate plastics pollution and to some extent; microplastics to mitigate their impact on aquatic ecosystem and human health.

RASHEED OLADUNJOYE (Primary Presenter/Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , oladunjoye.rasheed@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Abduljeleel Jimoh Adeyemi (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , adeyemijineco@gmail.com;

Oyebamiji Fafioye (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , oyebamiji.fafioye@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Raheem Asiru (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University Gusau, Zamfara State, Nigeria , asiruraheemadekunle@fugusau.edu.ng;

Mistura Adeleke (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , adeleke.mistura@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Oladunni Adekunle (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , adekunle.oladunni@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Folarin Owagboriaye (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , owagboriaye.folarin@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Titilola Salisu (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , titilola.salisu@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Olusegun Lawal (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , lawal.olusegun@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Titilayo Adesetan (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , titilayo.adesetan@oouagoiwoye.edu.mg;

Hikmat Balogun-Abiola (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , hikmat.balogun-abiola@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

Mujidat Oyeyipo (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY, AGO - IWOYE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA , funmilayo.oyeyipo@oouagoiwoye.edu.ng;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Assessment of stream biofilm and fish in response to restoration efforts in Little Arnot, PA Pennsylvania is the nation’s largest producer of hardwood lumber and leads the nation in natural resource extraction efforts. Ecosystem management is a principal strategy for managing the health of forests and aquatic systems flowing through them. This project evaluates the influence of stream restoration techniques including chop and drop (2022) and large-scale earth movement (2021) on habitat, fish abundance and biofilm and nutrient limitation in the Little Arnot (LiAR) watershed in northern PA. Our before-after and control-impact design includes 2 years of habitat, fish, and algal measures pre-restoration in LiAR and in the undisturbed control watershed. We did not find strong trends in species richness or fish community diversity following restoration. Variation in the number and biomass of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), and in the whole fish community, appears to be highly influenced by baseflow conditions. LiAR sites showed lower levels of biofilm standing stock biomass compared to other locations in the region, likely due to dark hemlock canopy overstory. Nutrient diffusing substrates in the pre-restoration site indicate a potential nitrogen limitation compared to the reference (Cherry Run) suggesting phosphorous limitation. Sunlight appears to limit production, followed by either N or P. Both of which contribute to the lower amounts of chlorophyll a biofilm biomass in both standing biomass and nutrient diffusing substrates. Continued monitoring of these sites over several years should allow assessment of the restoration efforts separate from inter-annual variability in water levels.

Heather Bechtold (Primary Presenter/Author), Commonwealth University of PA Lock Haven , hab206@commonwealthu.edu;

Lydia Delp (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Commonwealth University of PA Lock Haven , lgd7371@lockhaven.edu;

Steve Seiler (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Commonwealth University of PA Lock Haven , sseiler@commonwealthu.edu;

Charles Keeports (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), United States Forest Service , charles.keeports@usda.gov;

Nathan Welker (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), United States Forest Service , nathan.welker@usda.gov;

Ephraim Zimmerman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program , ezimmerman@paconserve.org;

Luke Bobnar (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Western Pennsylvania Conservancy , lbobnar@paconserve.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Biological Survey of a Newly Constructed Wetland Complex at Oakwoods Nature Preserve (Hancock County, Ohio) In 2021, 43 wetland pools were created at Oakwood Nature Preserve with funding from the H2Ohio program. One year post construction, we conducted biodiversity assessments sampling each pool for benthic bacteria, periphyton, macroalgae, macroinvertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. To date we have identified over 23,000 unique bacterial taxa, 81 algal genera, 55 macroinvertebrate families, Hylid and Ranid frogs, as well as Centrarchid and Cyprinid fishes. This survey indicates an impressive rate of colonization by these various organisms one-year post-pool construction. We found pool location to significantly influence community structure of benthic bacteria, periphyton, and macroinvertebrate communities. This effect of pool location is likely associated with water quality and pool hydrology. Long-term biodiversity monitoring of the wetlands will provide needed information to inform best practices for wetland construction and maintenance.

Katherine L. Krynak (Primary Presenter/Author), Ohio Northern University , k-krynak@onu.edu;

Kelli Clark (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , k-clark.1@onu.edu;

Nathan Zima (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , n-zima@onu.edu;

Ashley Sallee (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , a-sallee;

Alex Waite (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , a-waite.2@onu.edu;

Chad Carroll (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Hancock Soil & Water Conservation District , ccarroll@hancockparks.com;

Elizabeth Tristano (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , e-tristano@onu.edu;

Leslie Riley (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , l-riley.1@onu.edu;

Robert Verb (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio Northern University , r-verb@onu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

EVALUATION OF WILD TROUT DISPERSAL FOLLOWING CULVERT REPLACEMENT IN A PENNSYLVANIA STREAM Culvert replacements are a high conservation priority, yet post-replacement monitoring of fish populations rarely occurs. To address this shortcoming, we tracked wild trout movements after five culvert replacements in August 2020 in Bobby Run, Cameron County, Pennsylvania. Movements were tracked using mark-recapture with PIT and elastomer tags, where fish were marked prior to culvert removal and recaptured twice after removal. For reference, we also monitored movements in a nearby control stream without passage barriers. Recapture rates were similar at both streams after three months (22-25%) and ten months (12-18%). Three months after culvert replacement, 8.8% of recaptured trout moved upstream past culvert replacement sites in Bobby Run, whereas 8.7% moved similar distances upstream in the control stream. During the second recapture (ten months after replacement), 23.5% of recaptured trout moved past a remediated culvert site in Bobby Run and 0% moved upstream in the control stream. These results suggest that after culvert replacement, trout in Bobby Run rapidly established movement patterns similar to the control stream. The elevated upstream movement rate in Bobby Run ten months after replacement may reflect prolonged establishment of new home ranges, but further research is needed to explain long-term movement patterns. Overall, our findings illustrate rapid benefits of restoring habitat connectivity, which we hope will provide additional justification for future stream restoration efforts.

David J. Janetski (Primary Presenter/Author), Indiana University of Pennsylvania , janetski@iup.edu;

Nicholas Christensen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Indiana University of Pennsylvania , wtnv@iup.edu;

Eric Chapman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Western Pennsylvania Conservancy , echapman@paconserve.org;

Eli Long (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Western Pennsylvania Conservancy , elong@paconserve.org;

Kathleen Lavelle (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Trout Unlimited , klavelle@tu.org;

Shawn Rummel (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Trout Unlimited , srummel@tu.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

VEGETATION ENCROACHMENT REDUCES FISH AND METAPHYTON ABUNDANCES IN A SHALLOW WETLAND The Everglades wetland was a broad shallow slow-flowing ecosystem until the early 1900s. The drainage, compartmentalization, and cessation of sheet flow in the Everglades has degraded the spatial patterning of the ridge and slough landscape. In some areas the sawgrass has grown from the elevated ridges down into the historically deeper waterlily and spike-rush sloughs, but the impact on aquatic communities has not yet been carefully examined. Removal of sawgrass is being conducted to restore sloughs and encourage reconnection of the system. To document the consequences of sawgrass encroachment for animal communities, we quantified densities of fish (< 8 cm standard length) and macroinvertebrates with 1-m2 throw traps and bottomless pull traps in 12 degraded sloughs and 12 adjacent remnant sloughs in a paired design. All habitats were sampled in the dry season (March) and wet season (Sept) of 2023. Water depth did not differ between slough types. Mean total fish densities were 5x higher in the dry season and 4x higher in the wet season, and total biovolumes of metaphytic algal/microbial mats were 3.2x higher in the dry season and 10x higher in the wet season in the remnant sloughs. The community composition of fishes did differ between habitats. These results suggest that the slough degradation by sawgrass encroachment has reduced habitat support for fish. It also suggests the restoration effect of vegetation removal will be significant and supports the trophic function of the wetland.

Ariana Jonas (Primary Presenter/Author), Florida International University , arjonas@fiu.edu;

Nathan Dorn (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Florida International University , ndorn@fiu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

An assessment of aquatic macroinvertebrate functional communities from two urban restoration sites within Ohio’s Mill Creek Watershed Urban streams are degraded due to a combination of anthropogenic factors including human development, pollution, and habitat destruction. Historically, low-head dams were placed into urban streams to alter flow for municipal or industrial needs. Because low-head dams have negative ecological impacts and human safety concerns, current efforts are underway to remove or restore habitat around these dams. The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of riffle habitat restoration on functional macroinvertebrate communities across two study years in an urbanized stream. This study was conducted in two restoration sites within Mill Creek, Cincinnati, Ohio, in September 2022 and 2023. Sites were restored in different years, with the younger site restored in 2021 and an older site restored in 2018. Benthic macroinvertebrate samples were collected from randomly selected riffle habitats (n=5/site/year). Macroinvertebrates were sorted and identified into functional feeding groups. Macroinvertebrate data indicates both restoration sites were heterotrophic, with stable habitat, but a lack food diversity. Between study years, both sites increased in macroinvertebrate abundance, with more filtering collectors and predators present, indicating more channel stability and food availability. Restoration created new habitats that were successfully colonized by macroinvertebrates, however, functional measures indicate improvements are still needed at both sites.

Erin Linko (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Xavier University , linkoe@xavier.edu;

Katelyn Paul (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Xavier University , paulk4@xavier.edu;

Mollie McIntosh (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Xavier University , mcintoshm2@xavier.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Using Macroinvertebrate Functional Metrics to Inform Restoration Targeted at Rare Species Ecological restoration programs are often targeted at rare species, making it challenging to use these species themselves as indicators of restoration success. Development of proxy indicators can bolster our understanding of rare taxa trends. In freshwater systems, aquatic macroinvertebrates are a commonly used indicator of habitat condition and biotic communities. However, to maximize their information content, we need to look beyond simple indices of biotic integrity to consider functional measures that relate to restoration activities and objectives. We are monitoring biotic responses to a restoration program in Holly Creek, a major tributary of the biodiverse Conasauga basin (GA, USA), in which several rare fish and mussel species are the restoration focus. We are using 4 years of semi-quantitative macroinvertebrate samples collected from 6 sites along a longitudinal gradient (both geologic and land use) to supplement surveys of rare fishes and mussels. Functional feeding group composition and associated species traits will be determined with a particular focus on characteristics that can be indicators of excess sedimentation or changes in basal resources. We will also compare macroinvertebrate and fish responses along the longitudinal gradient. Ultimately, our project will use a suite of ecological responses to evaluate if restoration actions are having a measurable impact on Holly Creek and aim to provide insights into specific restoration strategies.

Carlos Vargas (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Georgia , carlos.vargas@uga.edu;

Mackenzi Hallmark (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , mackenzi.hallmark@uga.edu;

Phillip Bumpers (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , bumpersp@gmail.com;

Seth Wenger (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , sethwenger@fastmail.fm;

Amy Rosemond (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , rosemond@uga.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Calibrating coolwater fish and macroinvertebrate assessment indices to confirmed Indiana coolwater stream conditions Biological assemblages differ greatly between warm, cool, and coldwater environments. Cool or cold summer maximum ambient stream temperatures naturally support assemblages diminished in the number of taxa and of individuals present as compared with warmwater streams. This may result in streams being falsely listed as impaired when evaluated using Indiana’s Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) for biological assemblages. Correctly characterizing stream temperature regimes is essential for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) aquatic life use support decisions. Therefore, IDEM initiated a two-year program to sample coolwater systems for continuous temperature dynamics, macroinvertebrates, and fish. The statewide sites were selected to represent both minimally-disturbed reference sites and degraded stressed sites. Observed temperature statistics from the continuous records were correlated to modelled temperature statistics to determine applicability of temperature models in un-monitored sites. Biological metrics were related to both observed and modelled temperature statistics to determine which set of statistics best aligned with biological expectations. Biological metrics responsive to stressors in the coolwater systems were scored and combined in a multimetric IBI for each assemblage. The coolwater indices and component metrics were more efficient at identifying stressed conditions than the warmwater indices when applied in the same sites. The coolwater indices will provide an accurate assessment of ecological effects, thus improving IDEM’s assessment and diagnostic capability.

Benjamin Jessup (Primary Presenter/Author), Tetra Tech, Inc. , benjamin.jessup@tetratech.com;

Stacey Sobat (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Indiana Department of Environmental Management , ssobat@idem.in.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF A COMMUNITY-SCIENCE-BASED MACROINVERTEBRATE BIOTIC INDEX FOR WADABLE STREAMS Community Based Monitoring (CBM) or citizen science, in which the public participates to some degree in the scientific process, is a rapidly growing data source in water science. In Wisconsin, the Water Action Volunteers (WAV) was established as a community science program in which volunteers collect stream data that can be used by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). For biological data, the WDNR collects macroinvertebrates in the field and estimates water quality using the Hilsenhoff Biotic Index (HBI) from, ideally, genus level identifications. The WAV Macroinvertebrate Biotic Index is a simplified, field version of the HBI. Here, we evaluate the efficacy of the simplified index to determine stream condition. Nineteen streams, including long-term monitoring sites sampled annually by the WDNR, were monitored in the Spring and Fall of 2023 in Southeastern Wisconsin following the WAV protocol. Preliminary analysis shows that the WAV Macroinvertebrate Biotic Index is performing similarly to the HBI among our focal streams. A state-wide analysis will compare WAV ratings to the most recent HBI score at the same sampling station. This evaluation is necessary to confirm the consistency of the WAV and HBI indices so volunteer data can be confidently used to inform management actions.

Farron Bussian (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Wisconsin - Parkside , bussi001@rangers.uwp.edu;

Jessica Orlofske (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Wisconsin - Parkside , orlofske@uwp.edu;

Christopher Tyrrell (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Milwaukee Public Museum , tyrrell@mpm.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

APPLICATIONS OF NATURAL HISTORY COLLECTIONS TO SUPPORT FRESHWATER COMMUNITY SCIENCE AND OUTREACH PROGRAMS Community science can increase the success of a conservation program by involving community members in data collection efforts. The Water Action Volunteer (WAV) program in Wisconsin uses community-based science to help gather information on stream and river health across the state. One of the measures of water quality submitted by volunteers is a macroinvertebrates-based biotic index. The index employed by the WAV program uses the presence or absence of macroinvertebrates divided into four pollution tolerance groups to estimate the health of Wisconsin’s rivers and streams. Identification of macroinvertebrates is often conducted using illustrated images (i.e., line drawings) of the taxa. Identification from illustrations can be difficult or frustrating, especially for new volunteers unfamiliar with keys or invertebrates. For this project, we will use photographs of museum specimens from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and the Milwaukee Public Museum to create materials to teach and train volunteers with the WAV program. Currently, 103 specimens comprising 50 families are included with plans to expand the taxonomic scope. Photographs were taken using a Zeiss microscope with an attached digital camera. While there are similar nationwide applications and study aids available, it can be beneficial to have a program-specific teaching collection as well as locally sourced study aids. We put forth that by creating a teaching collection of natural history specimens for outreach as well as digital identification materials using photographs of specimens for community-based science programs, volunteers will feel confident with their identifications and thus lead to more reliable results.

Skylar Johnston (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Wisconsin - Parkside , johns720@rangers.uwp.edu;

Jessica Orlofske (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Wisconsin - Parkside , orlofske@uwp.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

COMPARISONS AND ANALYSES OF DIFFERENT SAMPLING TYPES FOR REGULATORY PROTOCOLS IN MULTIPLE WESTERN STATES Protocols utilized to evaluate the health of macroinvertebrate populations vary from state to state, with different sampling, analysis, and assessment methods, as well as different regulatory outcomes. While sampling methods vary in terms of the targeted habitat, number of samples collected, and sorting protocols, several states utilize some form of a multi-metric index to report results and determine attainment or impairment of aquatic life. While the overall composition of the multi-metric indices vary among states and ecoregions, some similar metrics are incorporated into these multimetric indices. We utilized these specific metrics that are common to one or more state protocol to discuss the potential effects of differing sampling methods on variability in metric values among replicates, seasons, or years in metric scores. In addition, if our results suggest that some methods result in more substantial variability than others even when natural factors are accounted for when possible, we will discuss how this could affect regulatory outcomes.

Jennifer Shanteau (Primary Presenter/Author), GEI Consultants, Inc. , jshanteau@geiconsultants.com;

Michelle Chadwick (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), GEI Consultants, Inc , mchadwick@geiconsultants.com;

Jeniffer Lynch (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), GEI Consultants, Inc. , jlynch@geiconsultants.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Describing an Urban Stream Flowing Through a Historical Patchwork of Mines Using a Multimetric Approach of Biological Indicators This study focuses on Lone Elm Creek (LEC), an urban stream in Joplin, Missouri, USA, within the Tri-State Mining District, historically known for lead and zinc mining. Although the last mines and smelters stopped operation by the early 1960s, legacy mining effects remain, including high concentrations of heavy metals from diffuse pollution and point inputs from flooded underground mine shafts that discharge into surface waters (i.e., mine adits). LEC study site consists of two consecutive reaches located upstream and downstream of a mine adit. At each reach, we characterized the macrophyte and macroinvertebrate communities, quantified algal biomass and chlorophyll a, and sampled surface water chemistry for nine consecutive months (biweekly during summer months and monthly during fall and winter). Both reaches were characterized by having zinc and cadmium concentrations above EPA chronic toxicity thresholds for aquatic life. In addition, the downstream reach was coated with iron-metal hydroxide precipitates all year round. The mine adit raised electrical conductivity and contributed elevated ammonium and iron concentrations to the downstream reach, resulting in the absorption of phosphate to iron-metal hydroxides. Coinciding with these differences, we observed contrasting biological assemblages upstream to downstream, with the upstream reach showing higher chlorophyll a to algal biomass ratios, lower macroinvertebrate diversity yet higher macroinvertebrate abundance and macrophyte cover.

Jessica Wilson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Missouri , wilsonjess@mail.missouri.edu;

Alba Argerich (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Missouri-Columbia , argericha@missouri.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Integrated monitoring programs to help understand and forecast toxigenic algal blooms in Lake Anna and the upper Shenandoah River Basin, Virginia, USA Toxigenic harmful algal blooms (HABs) have increasingly degraded water quality throughout the world. The toxins produced by cyanobacteria in HABs can affect ecosystems, drinking water sources, and recreational access. Although algal proliferations are commonly attributed to system eutrophication, the environmental cues that result in cyanobacterial toxin production are less well understood. In the U.S. Commonwealth of Virginia, HABs have frequently resulted in recreational contact warnings in both Lake Anna and the upper Shenandoah River Basin in the past several years. The USGS, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin have implemented an intensive monitoring program to discern environmental factors that prompt algal proliferations and potentially trigger toxin production by cyanobacterial assemblages. Our goal is to better understand causes of HABs, the source of any identified environmental trigger, and assess novel approaches and technologies to predict HABs. Integrated programs of continuous monitoring, discrete sampling, and synoptic studies are under way in both Lake Anna and the upper Shenandoah River Basin. In addition to water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, and turbidity, measurements of nitrate and photosynthetic pigments will be recorded at all continuous-monitoring stations. Among other uses, continuous-monitor data will be used to model ecosystem metabolism. Discrete samples are being analyzed for nutrients, common ions, and trace elements as well as eDNA and eRNA segments for selected cyanotoxins. Synoptic studies are examining longitudinal transects and surface-water/groundwater interactions in the Shenandoah River Basin and nutrient sources in Lake Anna.

Douglas Chambers (Primary Presenter/Author), U.S. Geological Survey , dbchambe@usgs.gov;

Brendan Foster (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey , bfoster@usgs.gov;

Carly Maas (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey , cmaas@usgs.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

airmount’s First Attempt at a Man-Made Wetland: Twenty Years of Stormwater Management and Wetland Biodiversity Study Wetlands, because of their variability regarding hydrology, vegetation and location, are difficult to define and legally protect (Tiner, 2005). As a result, over half of the United States’ wetlands have been destroyed, yet wetlands are a hotspot for life and provide an extensive list of ecosystem services (Whigham, 1999). Wetlands support an estimated 40% of plant and animal life despite only taking up 6% of the earth’s surface (FWS, 2023). These saturated lands provide a unique habitat for a distinct group of wetland-specific plants, insects, amphibians, and other animals. Man-made wetlands take advantage of and mimic natural wetland ecosystem services– particularly stormwater and nutrient retention– while supporting wetland species (Shaharuddin et al., 2011). However, many man-made wetlands fail to last ecologically as a result of poor planning and maintenance (Denton and Richter, 2013; Whigham, 1999). This 20-year longitudinal study analyzes a 2.5 acre wetland commissioned by the Fairmount Park Commission in Cobbs Creek in Philadelphia. Species richness in the wetland across all categories of observed life has been declining with an estimated 4 species loss yearly, and the health of the overall wetland has been suffering. This can be attributed to reckless herbicide application, which can be directly linked to the death of the Typha sp. population in the wetland, and the original flawed construction of the wetland. This study lists recommendations to revitalize and correct issues that the wetland faces, while highlighting the importance of community science and engaging communities in wetland education.

Dylan Scollon (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Swarthmore College , dylanscollon1@gmail.com;

George Ambrose (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Alliance for Watershed Education , gamb370294@aol.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

LINKING ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSORS TO MACROINVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY DIVERSITY ACROSS THE UNITED STATES This project is a collaborative effort by students participating in the Society for Freshwater Science’s Emerge program funded by the National Science Foundation. The goal of the Emerge program is to broaden participation in freshwater sciences, and incorporated into the program is the task of working on small group research projects that utilize data from the NSF’s National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). We decided to focus our project around the relationships between macroinvertebrate communities and the multiple stressors they face in freshwater systems. Examples of potential stressors include dissolved oxygen, conductivity, nutrient concentrations, pH, and riparian vegetation composition. We will determine the relationships between these possible stressors and macroinvertebrate metrics like richness, diversity, and percent indicator taxa. While we know many physicochemical characteristics influence biotic integrity, the relative degrees of influence and the potentially interactive effects of these stressors are not well known. For our analyses, we are utilizing data collected by NEON across 23 stream and river sites within the U.S. This provides us with a unique opportunity to examine the patterns linking macroinvertebrate communities and stressors on a large scale. Understanding the patterns linking macroinvertebrate communities and stressors is vital to conservation of the biodiversity of freshwater communities which we will explore through the guided process of the Emerge program.

Camryn Larson (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Arkansas , calarson@uark.edu;

Champagne Cunningham (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Tennessee State University , champagne.cunningham@gmail.com;

Viviana Bravo (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , vivi.bravo18@gmail.com;

Hope Romero (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of San Diego , hoperomero@sandiego.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Regional Survey of Adult Odonata Communities of Prince Edward County Virginia Aquatic habitats and biodiversity are in peril worldwide. Anthropogenic impacts on aquatic systems are immense and complex due to habitat degradation and water pollution. Aquatic macroinvertebrates are used as bioindicators in-order to study current aquatic habitat health. To truly understand the environmental impacts, the biodiversity of these habitats needs to be documented. Our chosen focal group was order Odonata which is comprised of damselflies and dragonflies. Throughout much of central Virginia, Odonata species diversity is very understudied. From May 2022 to November 2023, aquatic and terrestrial habitats were sampled for adult odonata in Prince Edward County Virginia. In the field, visual observations, pictures, and captured specimens were used to document diversity at each location examined. Observations by citizen scientists were incorporated into the study from Odonata Central and iNaturalist. At the beginning of the study 18 species had been previously identified. As of November 2023, the species count has increased to 58 species. All observations were added to the Odonata Central database. Sampling will continue through the summer 2024 field season with the hopes to continue to increase documented diversity.

Scott Starr (Primary Presenter/Author), Biology Department, South Plains College, Levelland, TX 79336 , sstarr@southplainscollege.edu;

Victoria Fenton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), ;

Will Gardner (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), ;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Recalibration of the New Jersey Coastal Plain Fish Index of Biotic Integrity In 2000, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) Bureau of Freshwater Fisheries (BFF) initiated a pilot project to assess the feasibility of developing a Fish Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) in New Jersey’s Inner Coastal Plain eco-region. Results from the pilot project were presented to a Fish IBI workgroup in 2006 and in 2008, the NJDEP Bureau of Freshwater and Biological Monitoring (BFBM) began taking steps to ensure a valid index was being developed which could be used internally to assess the waters of the state 305(b), identify impaired water bodies 303(d), and identify waters in need of special protection through the Category One process. In 2009, a total of 29 least impacted/most impacted sites along with 64 other sites were used to develop and assess low gradient fish metrics using the methods and analysis outlined by Maryland DNR (Roth et al. 2000). Over 40 metrics were tested against various stressor gradients. The resulting IBI included eight metrics – native species, benthic species, intolerant species, percent tolerants, percent insectivores, percent piscivores, abundance, and DELTS. Twelve years later, evaluation of the efficacy of the IBI has suggested that several metrics lacked sensitivity in distinguishing biotic integrity among sites, and it is apparent that a recalibration of the original IBI is needed. In addition, BFBM initiated analysis of fisheries data from Outer Coastal Plain streams with the goal of developing bioassessment criteria for all coastal plain streams. These recalibration methods follow a structured approach developed by Whittier and Hughes (2007) which was successfully applied to high gradient streams in NJ (Vile and Henning 2018). Steps for recalibration include assigning ecological attributes to each species, and testing ecological metrics for signal to noise, range, responsiveness, and redundancy. These new metrics will provide the Bureau with an effective and sensitive biological tool to monitor and assess all non-tidal, wadeable streams in the Inner and Outer ecoregions.

Jenna Krug (Primary Presenter/Author), , jenna.krug@dep.nj.gov;

Andrew Jensen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), ;

John Vile (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), NJ Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Freshwater & Biological Monitoring , John.Vile@dep.nj.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Project-based pedagogy as a tool for monitoring water quality in local Philadelphia Watersheds Active learning is vital in science education. Through field and laboratory projects, students gain an understanding of the scientific process, appreciate the uncertainties in data, and draw novel conclusions. Knowledge of the scientific process is critical in guiding their everyday life and future research. Research shows that project-based learning engages students who were previously unfamiliar with field science. Therefore, a central goal of The Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science (BEES) at Drexel University is providing field-based research experiences in many terrestrial and marine environments. The BEES Environmental Water Quality Class is a laboratory-focused class where, over eight years, at least one hundred undergraduates have collected and analyzed water samples from eight locations in the Wissahickon Creek (WC) and the lower Schuylkill River (SR). Students conducted analyses for common water quality parameters including BOD, TSS, dissolved N, P and Si, Alkalinity, Hardness and Chloride with careful attention to data collection and quality assurance. During 2015-2023, water quality reflected general land use and watershed size. Mean daily discharge in the WC and SR varied from 47 to 264 cfs and 1160 to 22000 cfs, respectively. Dissolved chloride in WC averaged 260 mg/L (max 1120 mg/L), contrasting with 80 mg/L in SR samples. Hardness and alkalinity were higher in WC, potentially reflecting wastewater discharges. Nutrients, particularly nitrate+nitrite, were elevated in WC (~1 to 5 mg N/L) compared to lower concentrations in SR. This dataset demonstrates the value of field projects in a class setting as a mechanism for monitoring water quality.

Miranda Johnston (Primary Presenter/Author), Drexel University and Academy of Natural Science , mej72@drexel.edu;

Sophia Larson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Drexel University and Academy of Natural Science , skl57@drexel.edu;

Michelle Gannon (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University , meg355@drexel.edu;

Lena Champlin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Boston University , lkc4@bu.edu;

David Velinsky (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Drexel University Biodiversity, Earth, and Environmental Science Department , djv23@drexel.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

THE INVURTS PROJECT ENGAGES UNDERGRADUATES IN STREAM ECOLOGY RESEARCH AT LOCAL- AND MACRO-SCALE Investigations with NEON: variability of macroinvertebrates versus urban and rural temperature dynamics in streams (INVURTS) launched its pilot phase in Fall 2023 (https://erenweb.org/active-projects/invurts/). The long-term objectives of the project include testing three hypotheses (intermediate disturbance, urban stream syndrome, and thermal equilibrium) about links between community diversity and temperature variability. We plan to use data from our growing network of field sites that expands on the range of conditions represented by 23 wadeable streams included in the long-term monitoring National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). So far, sixteen faculty and their students at primarily undergraduate institutions have installed temperature loggers in approx. 26 streams, collected seasonal macroinvertebrate diversity samples (community representatives and/or eDNA), and made habitat assessments. Grounded in the Ecology Research as Education (EREN) model, faculty collaborated locally with undergraduate research students and through class research projects, and with each other via project meetings, emails, the project website and shared documents. Project development lessons from the pilot year include improvements to details of survey development, data entry, eDNA sample filtering and field methods. Student engagement was mostly strong and related to specific goals, e.g. experience with field methods, interest in curriculum development, love of macroinvertebrates and/or a passion for data analysis. Learning outcomes can be centered on scientific process, field methods, quantitative skills and/or ecological concepts. The INVURTS project continues to recruit participants as the project matures and sets up for “launch” in fall 2024.

Patricia A. Saunders (Primary Presenter/Author), Ashland University , psaunder@ashland.edu;

Shannon J. O'Leary (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Saint Anselm College , shannon.j.oleary@gmail.com;

Elizabeth Sudduth (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia Gwinnett College , esudduth@ggc.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Little Ponds, Big Outcomes: Benefits to Undergraduates of a Pond-Focused Interdisciplinary Research Team Interdisciplinary undergraduate research is a great asset to students but can be difficult to organize at smaller, primarily undergraduate institutions. In fall 2020, we formed an interdisciplinary research team comprising faculty from diverse areas, including ecology, virology, geology, geography/GIS, and organismal biology (fish, turtles, macroinvertebrates), to investigate nine campus ponds. Our goal was to create a research program focused on local ecosystems that would (1) provide undergraduate students with hands-on research experience and (2) improve students’ science process and communication skills. Students conducted research with a specific faculty member each semester, and the entire team (faculty and students) met weekly for research presentations or workshops. At the end of the semester, students formally presented their work in a poster symposium. Students took pre- and post-program surveys each semester and completed a validated survey for self-assessment of learning gains in specific research skills. In seven semesters, we mentored 36 students. Student participation in the program ranged from one to six semesters. Analysis of students’ paired survey responses demonstrated perceived gains in a wide range of scientific skills including ability to collaborate, preparation of scientific posters, ability to contribute to science, time management, and ability to explain their research to a broad audience. From the self-assessment survey data, the most common outcomes included greater confidence, increased interest in graduate studies, and strengthened skills. This integrative program provides students with broad ecological training and the opportunity to improve scientific skills in a collaborative, interdisciplinary group of researchers focused on local aquatic ecosystems.

Carissa Ganong (Primary Presenter/Author), Missouri Western State University , cganong@missouriwestern.edu;

Dawn M. Drake (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Oklahoma , dmdrake@ou.edu;

Ashley Elias (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri Western State University , aelias1@missouriwestern.edu;

Michael Grantham (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri Western State University , mgrantham@missouriwestern.edu;

Karen Koy (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri Western State University , kkoy@missouriwestern.edu;

Ania A. Majewska (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , majewska@uga.edu;

Mark Mills (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri Western State University , mmills3@missouriwestern.edu;

Kristen Walton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri Western State University , kwalton1@missouriwestern.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

ACCESSIBLE AND MEANINGFUL WATERSHED EDUCATIONAL TOOLS Are you interested in providing meaningful watershed educational experiences to your audiences across the world? In this presentation, the Stroud Center Education Department will review how to successfully provide experiential learning opportunities that engage educators, students, citizens, conservation practitioners, municipal decision-makers, and researchers, to collaboratively advance knowledge and stewardship of fresh water. We will give you a roadmap of researched educational tools, frameworks, models and lessons to support your outreach efforts, courses, and grant collaborations. Included are NOAA’s Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) framework, Stroud Center’s Wikiwatershed® Web toolkit, the WATERS middle school curriculum, and examples from National Science Foundation projects that include broader impacts. These learned-centered activities connect audiences with their local environment and equip them to make decisions and take actions that contribute to stronger, sustainable, and equitable communities.

Tara Muenz (Primary Presenter/Author), Stroud Water Research Center , tmuenz@stroudcenter.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

BEYOND EMERGENCE: BUILDING COMMUNITY AND SUPPORT THROUGH STREAM Founded in 2023 as a result of productive discussions at the Society for Freshwater Science (SFS) annual meeting in Brisbane, Australia, the Scholar Team for Research, Engagement, & Advancing Minority voices (STREAM) is a collective of SFS Emerge fellows, past and present, who are interested in furthering the mission of the Emerge program by engaging the vibrant resource pool of current and former participants. We seek to represent the unique interests of our fellowship to ensure that participants are retained and supported in the field of Freshwater Science throughout their careers. Much like the way our riverine systems transport nutrients from upstream to downstream, STREAM will serve to share skills, knowledge, and support between fellows, creating opportunities that last from acceptance into Emerge and beyond. Within STREAM, there are 3 major initiatives: Fellow Led Opportunity Workshops, Fellow Friday Social Media, and The Emerge Alumni Network. By providing this option for Emerge participants during and after their time as fellows, we aim to retain and nourish emerging freshwater scientists. In this way, we not only complete our instars and emerge, but we also take flight. STREAM is a proud result of collaboration, acceptance, and openness among past and present SFS Emerge participants, but it is not a sponsored entity of the NSF-funded SFS Emerge Program (NSF DEB-2032146). While STREAM has received ample encouragement and support from the Emerge Steering Committee, STREAM activities, events, marketing, and financing are in no way funded through the NSF grant used to fund the Emerge Program.

Lauren Emer (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Florida International University , lemer006@fiu.edu;

Christina Linkem (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Stillwater Sciences , linkemc91@gmail.com;

Ayi Ajavon (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia Aquarium , ayi.j.ajavon@gmail.com;

Stella Wilson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , sewilson9@crimson.ua.edu;

Jason Aguirre (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Pittsburgh , jasonaguirre222@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Exploring the potential for socio-ecological research in aquatic systems within the NEON dataset The National Ecological and Observatory Network (NEON) was established to serve as a long-term geospatially wide ecosystem dataset. Sites within the NEON database were selected to cover varying ecoclimatic domains with many sites having low human population presence (e.g. located within a research field station or national park). However, with continued interest in researching human impacts on aquatic ecosystems and socioecological explorations, we seek to explore how the NEON dataset can be utilized. We have selected three sites to complete this objective. NEON sites Black Warrior River (BLWA) and Flint River (FLNT) were selected as our treatment groups for their proximity to urban presence. Our control group consists of the Lower Tombigbee River (TOMB) site in the Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge. All three sites are within the southeastern region of the U.S. Census data will be gathered from the surrounding communities for each site based on their proximity to the site, population size, and whether it is possible to access their demographic information. We will also gather water quality (e.g. pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids, temperature) and macroinvertebrate data (e.g. bio-integrity) from the NEON open database to test if sociological explorations can be done on the NEON sites with the highest urban presence.

Hazel Quarterman (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , quartermanhazel@gmail.com;

Ariana Dionisio (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), King County, WA , abdionisio27@gmail.com;

Micheal Borbolla (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Florida International University , mborb005.fiu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Exploring diatom biodiversity in the Everglades and Caribbean wetlands Quantitative reasoning skills are necessary in all STEM fields. Modules using publicly accessible long-term datasets can help students develop these skills and confidence in producing quality quantitative analyses. We developed a module that explores biodiversity using diatoms during our participation in Project EDDIE (Environmental Data-Driven Inquiry and Exploration). We chose this dataset because water quality assessments frequently include diatoms as biological indicators to evaluate aquatic ecosystem habitat type and health. Diatoms can be found in habitats where other biological indicators (e.g., macroinvertebrates) are absent, so they are often used in these assessments. Our module is designed to help instructors guide students through statistical analyses and corresponding graphics with R statistical software. Students explore biodiversity concepts such as species richness, relative abundance, evenness, and diversity and similarity indices. Goals include comparing and interpreting results as well as generating and understanding rarefaction curves. As students explore these concepts, they are introduced to and practice biostatistical skills needed to answer the over-arching question: Are these karstic wetland sites considered diverse, and are there dominant periphytic diatom species in karstic wetland communities? This peer-reviewed module has been taught in university classes and recognized as an “exemplary” teaching activity which supports education in geoscience.

Katherine Johnson (Primary Presenter/Author), , kajohnso@fiu.edu;

Gabriel Kamener (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), , gabriel.kamener;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

TO WHAT EXTENT DO RESERVOIRS SUBSIDIZE TAILWATER FISHERY FOODWEBS Resource subsidies play an important role in shaping aquatic food webs and freshwater ecosystems. Globally, rivers have been fundamentally altered by impoundments and reservoirs, but the extent to which pelagic-derived production from reservoirs is exported downstream and utilized by tailwater fisheries is unclear. To address this question, we quantified invertebrate drift and trout diets (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Salmo trutta) at two longitudinal locations downstream of multiple hypolimnetic impoundments throughout the upper Colorado River basin in 2022-2023. We found that sites immediately downstream of impoundments (~1 km) had higher abundance (individuals/m3) and biomass (mg DM/m3) of drifting reservoir-derived invertebrate taxa, e.g., Cladocerans, Copepods, and Mysis shrimp, than locations further downstream (~3-5 km). At certain times of year these subsidies reached extremely high levels (e.g., >17,000 individuals/m3). Additionally, we found that trout near the impoundments utilized these subsidies and had higher abundance (median = 9 individ/stomach upstream; 0 individ/stomach downstream) and biomass (mean = 92 mg DM/stomach upstream; 0.04 mg DM /stomach downstream) of reservoir-derived taxa in their diets than trout downstream. Finally, we found a general and positive relationship between the number of reservoir-derived invertebrates in fish diets and fish condition for individuals that were captured immediately below reservoirs (R2 = 0.29, p<0.001). Our findings suggest that invertebrate subsidies produced in reservoirs and exported downstream may play an important role in the health and productivity of recreationally and economically important tailwater fisheries and demonstrate the need to understand how these subsidies may change with future climate change and water storage decisions.

Morgan Ford (Primary Presenter/Author), usgs , mford@usgs.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

SIZE OF AQUATIC MACROINVERTEBRATES AS AN INDICATOR OF STRESS IN RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTS WITH HEAVY MINING ACTIVITY Mountaintop removal coal mining has increased the specific conductance of streams in central Appalachia up to 1200 uS cm causing a decline in certain local aquatic macroinvertebrate taxa. The composition of species in these environments has been shifting from numerous salt-sensitive mayflies and flies to more salt-tolerant species, leading to biodiversity loss. We predict that salt-intolerant species remain, but are stressed as a response to increasing ion concentrations. These taxa might reallocate energy resources to focus on survival rather than growth. This study aims to identify if the size class and the wet-to-dry weight ratio of remaining populations of 3 salt-sensitive taxa indicate stress across a salinization gradient in a sample collected from 9 streams in October 2023. The chosen taxa include 2 scraper groups (Stenonema and Optioservus) and 1 shredder group (Leuctra) to see how salt sensitivity differs in macroinvertebrates with different food sources. We predicted that the taxon-specific sizes and wet-to-dry mass ratios will decline across this gradient in the 3 taxa identified based on their life history traits (e.g. feeding mode, respiration, and potential to disperse). Findings from this study will identify indicators of stress prior to local extirpation. This information can also be used to monitor how mining could reduce population-level fitness and the capacity for performing expected stream ecosystem functions.

Hiya Barai (Primary Presenter/Author), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) , hiyab@vt.edu;

Saumil Trivedi (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) , somli@vt.edu;

Kelley Sinning (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) , ksinning@vt.edu;

Erin Hotchkiss (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) , ehotchkiss@vt.edu;

Daniel McLaughlin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , mclaugd@vt.edu;

Caleigh Meehan (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , cemeehan@vt.edu;

Gregory Pond (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), USEPA, Region 3, Laboratory Services and Applied Science Division , pond.greg@epa.gov;

Stephen Schoenholtz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , schoenhs@vt.edu;

Lisa Tabor (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , lmt@vt.edu;

Sally Entrekin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , sallye@vt.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Habitat structure and predator defense development in Daphnia Many prey species exhibit phenotypic plasticity in predator defenses depending on their exposure to predator kairomones. Habitat structure can strongly influence predator success in aquatic ecosystems. The presence, absence, or arrangement of macrophytes to serve as a refuge for prey can impact their vulnerability to predation. Several species of the aquatic Cladoceran, Daphnia, have been shown to develop neck spines and extended tail spines in response to some predators. We will expose Daphnia magna populations to Libellulidae nymphs, a common aquatic predator, to determine whether predator exposure induces spine development in this species and if the development of spines is influenced by the availability of aquatic vegetation as a refuge. We expect that high refuge availability will decrease the frequency and length of Daphnia spine development.

Emily Schwartz (Primary Presenter/Author), Holy Family University , eschwartz@holyfamily.edu;

Elizabeth Carroll (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Holy Family University , ecarroll2@holyfamily.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Habitat patchiness influences predation rates in aquatic ecosystems Habitat loss continues to accelerate globally and is the number one threat to biodiversity. Habitat loss leads to habitat fragmentation, the breaking apart of continuous habitat into smaller patches, and decreases in overall habitat area. Habitat loss negatively impacts many ecological processes, but it is unclear whether this is due to loss of total habitat area or fragmentation that changes the spatial arrangement of habitat. Aquatic vegetation is a valuable freshwater habitat that adds structural complexity, serves as a nursery area, and provides refugia for prey from aquatic predators. Aquatic vegetation can also reduce the maneuverability, visual range, and effectiveness of predators. Loss of aquatic vegetation can increase the frequency and success of predator attacks on prey and therefore negatively affect species interactions and abundance. We investigated the impact of habitat structure in an aquatic ecosystem using the invertebrate predator, Libellulidae nymph, and the vertebrate predator Danio rerio and the Cladoceran, Daphnia magna as prey. In D. rerio trials D. magna survivorship increased with habitat patchiness. We expect similar results for Libellulidae due to the lie in wait nature of their predation strategy.

Erin Moyer (Primary Presenter/Author), Holy Family University , emoyer@holyfamily.edu;

Elizabeth Carroll (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Holy Family University , ecarroll2@holyfamily.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Changes in prey resources modulate the effects of warming on consumers Ongoing increases in global temperatures continue to impact animal species that regulate a variety of ecosystem processes through their trophic interactions, movement, and behavior. Although direct impacts of warming on animal physiology have received considerable attention, it is becoming increasingly clear that indirect effects, such as concurrent shifts in ecosystem productivity, modify such responses. For example, recent studies have illustrated unexpected increases in growth, size, and productivity of some cold-water fish populations with warming temperatures. It is likely that despite elevated metabolic costs, these positive responses are driven by changes in the prey base, however few studies have explicitly examined how changes in temperatures modify food resources to influence fish populations. Indeed, there is an underutilized and growing body of work linking the effects of warming to changes in invertebrate size structure and productivity that can help guide predictions about how temperature and prey availability may interact to regulate freshwater food webs. We address this disconnect by exploring how shifts in invertebrate food resources modify the effects of warming on fish growth with a novel approach that blends conceptual synthesis, empirically collected data, and a mechanistic drift foraging-bioenergetics model developed for Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Overall, we found that changes to invertebrate community size structure, availability (i.e., production), or both, can strongly modify the response of trout growth to warming. As such, we emphasize the importance of understanding interactions between temperature and food resources for future conservation and management of riverine fish in a warmer world.

Eric Scholl (Primary Presenter/Author), U.S. Geological Survey , escholl@usgs.gov;

Ted Kennedy (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), USGS Southwest Biological Science Center, Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center , tkennedy@usgs.gov;

Morgan Ford (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), usgs , mford@usgs.gov;

Michael Dodrill (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), USGS , mdodrill@usgs.gov;

Charles Yackulic (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), USGS Southwest Biological Science Center, Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center , cyackulic@usgs.gov;

Robert Zuellig (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey , rzuellig@usgs.gov ;

Daren Carlisle (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey , dcarlisle@usgs.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

AUTOCHTHONY IN MINIATURE FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS IS DETERMINED BY THE AVAILABILITY OF AUTOCHTHONOUS ORGANIC MATTER, BUT ITS QUALITY MAY ALSO PLAY A ROLE Freshwater food webs are autochthonous or allochthonous-based depending on the local availability of organic matter (OM), like algae and leaf litter. Autochthonous-based pathways are attributed to sun-exposed habitats, where light incidence boosts the availability of autochthonous OM (auto-OM). However, numerous studies have observed autochthonous-based pathways even in shaded habitats because of auto-OM high nutritional quality. This study investigated if the local availability of auto-OM, shaped by light incidence over freshwater ecosystems, affects its contribution to aquatic insect diets. We conducted a five-month field experiment using tank bromeliads as miniature ecosystems exposed to 12 degrees of light incidence. We quantified tank bromeliads' structural parameters, sampled aquatic insects, algae, and leaf litter to run stable isotope analysis, and assessed algae biomass, chlorophyll-a concentration, and C:N:P content. We ran mixing models to estimate the auto-OM contribution to the diet of consumers across light treatments. Our preliminary results showed light incidence and bromeliad size positively affected auto-OM contribution, but chlorophyll-a concentration exhibited a negative effect. Larger tank bromeliads often show increased primary production, and their size could, along with the light incidence, increase auto-OM availability and, hence, autochthony. Simultaneously, higher light incidence elevates algae chlorophyll-a concentration but can reduce their unsaturated fatty acid content. We suggest that chlorophyll-a concentration negatively affected the auto-OM likely because of its potential correlation with a poorer fatty acid content. We conclude that the local availability of auto-OM affects its contribution to the diet of aquatic insects, but the role of auto-OM quality should be more studied.

Juliana S. Leal (Primary Presenter/Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , leal.julianasilva@gmail.com;

Angélica González (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Rutgers University , ag1271@camden.rutgers.edu;

Natália F. Souza (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , nfreitas1990@gmail.com;

Lúcia F. Sanchez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , sanches1983@gmail.com;

Vinicius F. Farjalla (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , vinicius.farjalla@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Using shotgun sequencing to infer diet of a dominant shredding caddisfly, Pycnopsyche spp. (Trichoptera: Limnephilidae) Aquatic biologists frequently assess macroinvertebrate diets to inform energetics, secondary production, and trophic ecology studies. Dietary information is typically obtained via stable-isotope analysis or by identifying gut-contents under a microscope. However, neither technique provides high-resolution data. The diets of shredding insects can rarely be resolved beyond vascular plant tissue, while the nutritionally important fungal component is often under-sampled. Using shotgun metagenomics to understand detritivore trophic ecology could provide a faster and more taxonomically robust way to evaluate detritus-based food webs. Shotgun sequencing allows researchers to sample the environment without prior knowledge about what is there, while detecting rare diet components. Pycnopsyche, a common genus of shredding caddisfly found in forest streams in the eastern U.S.A., relies on litter and associated fungi for its energetic requirements. We are collecting Pycnopsyche larvae from a developing cohort (second- to fifth-instar) in a single headwater stream at the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory, North Carolina, U.S.A. DNA from the caddisfly guts and stream leaf litter is being extracted and sent for whole-genome shotgun sequencing. We will compile chloroplast genomes from our litter species, along with fungal mitochondrial genomes from GenBank and fungal nuclear genomes from the JGI MycoCosm repository. Mapping our shotgun reads will identify the species—or at least genera—found in caddisfly guts and their relative abundance compared to samples taken from the surrounding environment. Our study tests the potential of shotgun metagenomics to inform stream trophic dynamics with far higher resolution than that possible using traditional techniques.

David Kyle Breault (Primary Presenter/Author), The University of Alabama , dkylebreault@gmail.com;

Michael R. McKain (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , mrmckain@ua.edu;

Jonathan P. Benstead (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , jbenstead@ua.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Trophic Linkages as Pathways for Aquatic Dissemination of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Ohio Watersheds Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) are a growing threat to public health. This study investigated effects of fish-based ecological network structure, trophic position, and diet composition on carbapenem resistance (CR) in river-riparian reaches surrounding six Ohio wastewater treatments plants. 10.5% of fish isolates exhibited CR, and 4.67% of fish isolates yielded carbapenemase-producing genes. Model selection found nutrient concentrations and turbidity were strongly supported predictors of CR in fish communities, along with ecological network properties including linkage density, compartmentalization, and variability in interaction magnitude. Occurrence of CR genes in multiple environmental reservoirs implies omnivores feeding on a variety of basal resources are more likely to be exposed to CR, evidenced by the significant (p = 0.01) negative relationship between CR occurrence and fish trophic position. A significant increase in CR occurrence with proportion of periphyton in fish community diet (p = 0.02), along with model support for environmental predictors that promote periphyton growth (i.e., nutrient enrichment and low turbidity), suggest periphyton may be a source of CR to fish. Prevalence of CR in sucker species (27/43 positive samples) supports an influence of benthic interactions in CR dissemination. While CR is currently frequent in large-bodied omnivorous fish, the presence of CR in forage species (i.e., Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum) with many aquatic and riparian predators has dangerous implications for the broader spread of CR. The occurrence of CR in multiple environmental reservoirs and across fish trophic guilds emphasizes the necessity for continued monitoring and research into abiotic and biotic mechanisms driving carbapenem resistance dissemination.

Audrey Laiveling (Primary Presenter/Author), Ohio State University , laiveling.1@buckeyemail.osu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

The contribution of autochthonous and allochthonous organic matter in lentic ecosystems' food webs: A global meta-analysis Freshwater food webs are fueled by autochthonous organic matter (auto-OM; i.e., algae) and allochthonous organic matter (allo-OM; i.e., terrestrial plant material). Allo-OM is more abundant but has lower nutritional quality and assimilation efficiency by freshwater consumers than auto-OM. Such discrepancies in the nutritional quality of auto and allo-OM likely generate differences in food webs' structure. Auto-OM-based food webs might show higher taxonomic and functional diversity than their allo-OM-based counterparts. However, land use changes and climate change are major threats to freshwater biodiversity and might alter the contribution of auto-OM to freshwater food webs. Riparian deforestation can increase the light incidence of freshwater ecosystems, boosting algae stocks but reducing their nutritional quality. Climate change increases freshwater animals' consumption of auto-OM and affects the stocks of both OM sources in the ecosystems. We aim to evaluate how the contribution of auto and allo-OM in lentic ecosystems' food webs will taxonomically and functionally shape lentic ecosystems' communities. Our main working hypothesis is that auto-OM will support greater taxonomic and functional diversity within aquatic communities due to its higher nutritional quality when compared with allo-OM. We propose a global meta-analysis to test whether the most taxonomically and functionally diverse aquatic communities will be correlated with a higher auto-OM contribution to the food webs of lentic ecosystems. We expect that freshwater communities will exhibit greater taxonomic and functional diversity when auto-OM contributes more than allo-OM to the energy flow because of the greater assimilation efficiency associated with high-quality auto-OM.

Luiza Costa (Primary Presenter/Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , olicosta.luiza@gmail.com;

Clarice C. Nova (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , casanova.cla@gmail.com;

Juliana S. Leal (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , leal.julianasilva@gmail.com;

Vinicius F. Farjalla (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , vinicius.farjalla@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Food web structure across dune succession gradient The succession of bare sand to sparse grasses, to shrubs and pines, and finally to the forested backdunes of Great Lakes coastal dunes was described in a foundational study by Henry Cowles (1899). This lateral change in terrestrial vegetation moving inland from the beach is also seen in the wetlands interspersed among the dune landscape. Wetlands along the dune succession gradient vary in wetland substrate, nutrient availability, canopy cover, temperature variance, and aquatic vegetation. Spatial subsidies connect terrestrial and aquatic systems often increasing the recipient habitat productivity and has the potential to influence food web and community dynamics of the recipient system. Resource subsidy through litterfall should increase along an open to forested dune succession gradient. The succession gradient provides an excellent natural experiment testing the hypothesis that as interdunal wetlands become more productive as vegetation develops, more complex food webs and longer food chains will emerge. We tested this idea using twelve interdunal wetlands along a dune succession gradient at Ludington State Park, MI, USA where we collected aquatic consumers and basal resources, and measured chlorophyll-a. Using carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes we constructed food webs of each wetland and determined trophic position of top predators. Chlorophyll-a showed a significant positive relationship with distance to Lake Michigan indicating increased algal biomass in wetlands farther from lakeshore (p = 0.008, R2adj = 0.478). We tested the productivity hypothesis using Chlorophyll-a as a predictor of FCL, however, the relationship between FCL and productivity was not significant (F1,10 = 1.182, R2adj = 0.016, p=0.302). Food chain length ranged from 2.62 to 3.75 across wetlands. Trophic position of top predators within multiple genera of Anisoptera, Zygoptera and Hemiptera show similar spreads and means. The next step is to test whether ecosystem size and resource subsidy influences FCL across the succession gradient.

Tiffany Schriever (Primary Presenter/Author), Western Michigan University , tiffany.schriever@wmich.edu;

Nicole Stewart (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Western Michigan University , nicole.a77.thompson@wmich.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Unlocking the Urban Mysteries: Native vs. Invasive – A Comprehensive Exploration of Fish and Plant Biodiversity in Colombo's Wetlands Urban wetlands in Colombo, Sri Lanka, are crucial ecosystems facing threats from both invasive fish and aquatic plants, necessitating comprehensive conservation efforts. Colombo, the only wetland capital in the world, harbors diverse ichthyofaunal communities, with 101 indigenous freshwater fish species. The development of the city poses a significant threat to these species. A study spanning eight months identified 25 fish species across six wetlands, with Thalangama Lake exhibiting the highest diversity. The presence of non-native fish species, including the rare Rhino-horn Goby, underscores the impact of environmental pollution on native fish populations. The study emphasizes the importance of protecting urban wetlands for ichthyofaunal conservation. Moreover, the study identified various invasive species across four wetland sites, including Salvinia molesta, Pistia stratiotes, and Eichhornia crassipes. Bellanwila-Attidiya exhibited the highest diversity of invasive plants. The presence of these invasive species emphasizes the urgent need for adaptive management strategies to mitigate their impact on native biodiversity, water quality, and overall ecosystem health. Immediate action is crucial to address the threat posed by invasive plants and ensure the long-term sustainability of Colombo's wetlands. Comprehensive studies are recommended to further understand the ecological impacts and develop evidence-based management approaches. In summary, these findings highlight the interconnected challenges posed by invasive fish and plants in Sri Lanka's urban wetlands, urging concerted efforts for their conservation.

Gayathra Charuka Bandara Aldeniyagoda Gedara (Primary Presenter/Author), Ocean University of Sri Lanka , gayathra.bandara@imbrsea.eu;

Shanaka Ranathunga (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Birmingham City University , rsnranathunga@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Invasion of the Shore: Evaluating Population Dynamics of Asian Shore Crab in an Urban Harbor Hemigrapsus sanguines, the Asian shore crab (ASC), is an East Asian species that has become invasive in the Northeast region since its 1980’s arrival. With high rates of reproduction, a wide-ranging appetite, and rapid growing population, this species has become a threat to coastal ecosystems. ASC was first found in the Boston Harbor in 2000 (Deer Peninsula) and since has continued to spread there, however, there has not been a comprehensive survey to fully describe its current abundance and distribution across the various islands. In summer 2023, I surveyed 5 islands (Gallops, Georges, Peddocks, Lovells and Thompson) to determine the population dynamics (abundance, distribution, sex ratio, and sizes) of ASC. I used two methods: 1) banded transect surveys, where I walked a transect line, turning over rocks and macroalgae to hand collect individuals, and 2) baited traps soaked over two tidal cycles. I found crabs to significantly differ in abundance across islands with the greatest total abundance on Gallops and Peddocks Island (n = 1,625 and 1,568) and the lowest on Lovells Island (n = 304) (p = 0.01). Crab size also varied significantly by island, with a greater number smaller crabs being found on Gallops (319 ± 73, p = 0.001; crab size: 10.75mm ± 1.95mm) and mid-sized crabs dominating Peddocks (199 ± 83, p = 0.04; crab size: 16.06mm ± 1.54mm). Given this species broad environmental tolerance and wide dietary preferences, population monitoring should be continued and impacts to local biodiversity should be assessed.

Anne Pierre (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Massachusetts Amherst , anneluciepie@umass.edu;

Michelle Staudinger (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Maine , michelle.staundinger@maine.edu;

Alysha Putnam (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Massachusetts Amherst , aputnam@umass.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF INVASIVE BYTHOTREPHES LONGIMANUS ON YELLOW PERCH ANGLING SUCCESS IN WESTERN LAKE ERIE Invasive species can threaten fishing success and fisheries production by altering food web structure and dynamics. In this vein, Bythotrephes longimanus, a large-bodied, invasive zooplankton species recently colonizing Lake Erie’s west basin, may underlie the recent decline in angler harvest rates of Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) despite stable population sizes. Building on prior research in Lake Erie's central and east basins, which confirms Yellow Perch consumption of Bythotrephes in the water column, we hypothesized that increased availability and consumption of Bythotrephes is responsible for decreased angling success by reducing artificial prey effectiveness (i.e., fishing lures). Towards this end, we conducted a “natural” experiment replicating angler behavior using three common gear types (e.g., spreader, crappie, Sabiki rigs) across varying Bythotrephes densities and environmental conditions (e.g., light, turbidity, temperature). Additionally, we analyzed the diets of angled Yellow Perch to determine how feeding varies with these factors. Preliminary analysis has demonstrated a significant relationship between water temperature and density of Bythotrephes, suggesting catch-per-unit- effort (CPUE) predictions likely respond to fluctuations in temperature and Bythotrephes densities (GAM, P < 0.05). Analysis of CPUE data for each gear type revealed significant effects for the Sabiki gear, with a negative coefficient suggesting a potential decrease in average CPUE compared to the other gear types (one-way ANOVA, Tukey HSD, P < 0.05). The results of this study should provide fisheries management agencies (e.g., Ohio Division of Wildlife) with an enhanced ability to predict Yellow Perch harvest, ensure realistic angler expectations, and offer insights into improving catch rates.

Olivia Houpt (Primary Presenter/Author), The Ohio State University , ohoupt@gmail.com;

Kylee Wilson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Ohio State University , wilson.4997@osu.edu;

Lindsey Bruckerhoff (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio State University , bruckerhoff.2@osu.edu;

Stu Ludsin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Ohio State University , ludsin.1@osu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Age and growth of Northern Snakehead in the Delaware River system Northern Snakehead (Channa argus) were first documented in Pennsylvania and the Delaware River watershed in 2004. They have rapidly expanded their range and spread throughout much of the mainstem Delaware River and its lower gradient tributaries. We boat electrofished four tidal tributaries of the Delaware River to collect Northern Snakehead (n=215) during spring, summer, and fall of 2021 and 2022. Sagittal otoliths were removed and thin-sectioned using a Buehler IsoMet low speed saw, sections were imaged and viewed using a microscope with 5x magnification. Our objective was to analyze age and growth characteristics and compare these to other non-native Northern Snakehead populations. We identified twelve age classes, and aged fish up to 11 years old. Age-2 fish were the most abundant in our study (n=68). Preliminary data showed that ages 1-7 had lower mean length-at-age when compared to Potomac River fish. Additional growth characteristics will be provided and compared to other Northern Snakehead populations. Implications for management of this invasive species will be discussed.

Colin Rohrback (Primary Presenter/Author), Academy of Natural Sciences , crr88@drexel.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

EXAMINING THE ROLE OF PREDATION IN POPULATION DYNAMICS AND DISPERSAL OF ZEBRA MUSSELS (DREISSENA POLYMORPHA) IN CANYON LAKE, TEXAS Predation of dreissenid mussels, for example, by waterbirds or fish, can affect the density and demography of dreissenid mussels. Predators may also play a role in the dispersal of mussels. Zebra mussels have been documented to survive gut passage of catfish in cooler temperatures and the migratory nature of some catfish species in fall and spring could facilitate the invasion of unaffected water bodies. The goal of this study is to examine the role of predation in population dynamics of zebra mussels in Canyon Lake, Texas, and to evaluate the risk of catfish contributing to dispersal of zebra mussels by examining (1) how predation affects zebra mussel densities with exclosure experiments in Canyon Lake; (2) the proportion of live and dead zebra mussels in gut of catfish; and (3) estimating the risk of catfish contributing to dispersal of zebra mussels. It is expected that predation will significantly reduce zebra mussel densities on treatment compared to control bricks in field experiments and predation pressure may be highest during spring/summer due to increased fish feeding. Results regarding the number of zebra mussels found in the gut of catfish and the proportion of live zebra mussels therein will provide guidance for management on whether catfish may contribute to the dispersal of zebra mussels, which will inform management practices such as sampling and stocking.

Sarah Stannard (Primary Presenter/Author), Texas State University , sj22130@txstate.edu;

Astrid Schwalb (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas State University , schwalb@txstate.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

MANAGING EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL WITH BURLAP BARRIERS: RESPONSE OF NUTRIENTS TO BARRIER DEPLOYMENT Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum, EWM) is an invasive aquatic plant that can impact the recreational value of lakes and can alter aquatic plant communities. Lake managers typically control EWM with herbicides but interest in non-chemical alternatives such as burlap benthic barriers has grown. In summer 2022, the Lake Leelanau Lake Association and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians deployed several burlap barriers as part of an effort to control EWM. During summer 2023, we monitored nutrient concentrations above and below three treatment barriers, and at two reference sites. Our data indicate that SRP was generally <0.005 mg/L both above and below the barriers and at reference sites. Nitrate concentrations were generally similar above and below the barriers, but concentrations varied among sample dates. Nitrate concentrations at two treatment sites were similar to reference sites but were higher at the third site. In contrast, NH3 concentrations were consistently higher below than above the barriers and the highest below barrier concentrations occurred during late summer. NH3 concentrations at reference sites were similar to above barrier values but were lower than the below barrier values. Elevated NH3 concentrations below barriers are likely due to decomposition of plant biomass trapped beneath the barriers at the time of deployment. Except for NH3, burlap barriers appear to have relatively little effect on nutrient concentrations above and below barriers. We will monitor nutrient concentrations again during summer 2024.

Anna Briem (Primary Presenter/Author), R.B. Annis Water Resources Institute, Grand Valley State University , briema@mail.gvsu.edu;

Annalise Povolo (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Lake Leelanau Lake Association , annalise@lakeleelanau.org;

Ronald Reimink (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Lake Leelanau Lake Association , reiminkron@gmail.com;

Dan Mays (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians , Dan.Mays@gtb-nsn.gov;

Mark Luttenton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Annis Water Resources Institute, Grand Valley State University , luttentm@gvsu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Decomposition properties of three leaf species in a beech-maple forest stream and their potential relationship to long-term changes in forest composition We examined the decomposition of leaves from American chestnut, American beech, and red maple in a headwater stream within a beech-maple forest in the Northeastern U.S. Chestnut was a dominant species in the watershed prior to the 1930’s before its functional extinction from chestnut blight. Currently, maple and beech are the dominant trees, and are predicted to increase and decrease, respectively, from climate change. Objectives of the study were to compare breakdown rates, microbial respiration rates, carbon/nitrogen ratio, and toughness (penetration force) of leaves, and to determine whether differences among species provide insight into how litter processing may be influenced by changes in forest composition. Leaf packs of the species were sampled over 103 days. The carbon/nitrogen ratio decreased over time and was highest for chestnut. Mean microbial respiration rates ranged from 2.7-8.3 mg dissolved O2/m2/h and were lowest on beech. Leaf toughness decreased over time, with chestnut leaves being tougher than beech or maple. Mass loss was greatest for maple with breakdown rates being 0.016, 0.016, and 0.022, d-1 for chestnut, beech, and maple, respectively. Overall, the decomposition rate of maple leaves was highest because they had the highest microbial activity and were least tough. Faster processing of maple leaves would favor a quick release of dissolved nutrients, whereas slower processing of chestnut or beech should divert more nutrients to the detritivore food web. Long term changes in forest composition in this region have the potential to affect the fate of energy and nutrients derived from leaf litter.

Nathan Glass (Primary Presenter/Author), Slippery Rock University , nathan.glasspa.gmail.com;

Dean DeNicola (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Slippery Rock University , dean.denicola@sru.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Examining Drought Effects on Leaf Litter Breakdown in Tropical Stream Ecosystems: Effects of Experimental Flow Reduction Droughts are becoming more frequent and severe in the Caribbean region, affecting stream ecosystems. As low flow conditions become more common, we expect to see changes in ecosystem function, like slow leaf litter breakdown rates due to changes in flow, shredder abundance, or other major factors. To assess drought effects, we measured riparian leaf litter breakdown. Our objective was to assess the effects of an experimental flow reduction on leaf litter breakdown rates in small headwater streams in Puerto Rico. In this study at El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico, Tabonuco leaves, Dacryodes excelsa, were placed in either mesh leaf bags or binder clips to measure the decay rate in two streams: one with natural flow and one experimentally reduced flow. On our collection dates, we gathered the leaves, oven-dried them, and calculated breakdown rates. Macroinvertebrates found colonizing the leaves were counted and identified to family level. Decay rates were slow, ranging from 1% per day in leaf bags to 1.3% in leaf clips. About 65% of the leaves were still remaining after the 42-day experiment. Leaf decomposition was significantly different between bags and clips, but was not affected by flow reduction. Macroinvertebrate abundance and species richness increased over time, but we did not find differences among streams or between bags and clip treatments. As droughts become more frequent and severe, understanding the effects of low-flow conditions on ecosystem processes will help in assessing the effects of climate change in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean region.

Alexandra Casiano Rivera (Primary Presenter/Author), North Carolina State University , xandraicr@gmail.com;

Alonso Ramirez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University , alonso.ramirez@ncsu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Organic matter processing in catchments after floodplain reconnection/dynamic alluvial valley (Stage 0) restoration Restoration of the hydrological and biological connectivity between streams and their floodplains often improves function, stability and biodiversity. In the midwest, many streams were irreversibly altered by farming practices of early European colonists and the accumulation of legacy sediments. The single channel, hardbottom streams that are now widespread on the modern landscape continue to undergo head-cutting and erosion even after reforestation. They are hydrologically and biologically different from the pre-colonization wet meadows with anastomosing channels, which had greater capacity for water storage, organic matter accrual and retention of sediment and nutrients. We measured litter breakdown rates in a) three restored dynamic alluvial valleys and b) three forested single channel streams in western Pennsylvania in summer and fall. Organic matter breakdown was faster during summer compared to fall but there was no difference between single channel streams and restored streams with stronger lateral connections with their floodplains. The findings are discussed relative to differences in temperature, water chemistry and macroinvertebrate shredder communities.

Kelly Johnson (Primary Presenter/Author), Ohio University , johnsok3@ohio.edu;

Kelly Love (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio University , kellyalove0@gmail.com;

Tatiana Burkett (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio University , tb942821@ohio.edu;

Natalie Kruse-Daniels (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio University , krusen@ohio.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Unraveling Effects of a Salinity Gradient on Detritus Quantity and Availability in Headwater Streams of the Central Appalachian Coalfields Headwater streams in the Appalachian Mountains support both in-stream and downstream microbial and invertebrate communities that play a pivotal role in carbon cycling. These streams store and transform carbon inputs received annually from terrestrial ecosystems. Surface coal mining in central Appalachia leaves headwater streams vulnerable to enhanced weathering of mining-exposed minerals that can elevate ions, which cumulatively increase specific conductivity. Increased salinity can impact the growth and diversity of microbial and invertebrate communities in headwater streams. Our research aims to assess cascading impacts of freshwater salinization on carbon availability for aquatic organisms. We are assessing the quality and quantity of organic matter in nine streams across a mining-induced salinity gradient (< 200 ?S/cm to >1000 ?S/cm). Fall and winter samples of coarse and fine benthic organic matter were analyzed for carbon and nitrogen isotopic composition; organic matter quantity was assessed through carbon standing crop measurements. We predict 1) variations in isotopic composition along the salinity gradient, reflecting changes in microbial and macroinvertebrate community organic matter processing, 2) heavier nitrogen isotope signatures increase with rising salinity due to heightened predator taxa abundance, and 3) fine benthic organic matter increase with salinity, driven by a rise in detritivore taxa, while coarse benthic organic matter will decrease due to shredder processing. This study explores how salinization impacts carbon cycling in a vital component of the stream network within the Appalachian coalfield.

Lisa Tabor (Primary Presenter/Author), Virginia Tech , lmt@vt.edu;

Megan Underwood (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Virginia Tech , umegan7@vt.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Temporal shifts in water quality in freshwater systems in the Lake Atitlán Basin Some of the most significant threats to lakes include land cover change, nutrient input, and accelerated eutrophication. Situated in the Guatemalan highlands, Lake Atitlán is an endorheic basin that formed 85,000 ya within a volcano's caldera, and it is the deepest lake in Central America. Over the past few decades, the lake has been subject to heightened anthropogenic pressures, including land conversion. Permanent rivers drain into the lake in the northern part of the basin, but long-term changes in water quality in these rivers have not been examined. My research aims to (i) uncover the historical patterns of land cover change in the basin, with a specific emphasis on the riparian zones, and (ii) analyze the water quality in the rivers, exploring relationships between water quality and changes in land cover, especially in riparian areas. I will integrate remote sensing techniques with long-term environmental data gathered from the river networks in the lake basin. The importance of this research lies in its ability to offer a comprehensive understanding of the Lake Atitlán environment by incorporating changes in land cover, alterations in the riparian zone, and variations in river water quality. Gaining insight into the long-term dynamics of land cover change and the rivers will inform management strategies that support the conditions in the lake and cultural traditions in the region.

Natalia Vargas López (Primary Presenter/Author), Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia and Center of Studies of Atitlán , navargalo@gmail.com;

Krista Capps (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , kcapps@uga.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Rapid Flood Damage Assessment Using the Google Earth Engine and the JRC Database: A Case Study at Kampong Thom Province Kampong Thom, a province in Cambodia, experienced significant damage from a flash flood in 2022, affecting infrastructure and agriculture. This study utilized advanced data and techniques to assess the extent and extent of the flood damage. The flood-prone mapping was assessed using Water Occurrence data (1984–2021) obtained from the Global Surface Water Explorer using ArcGIS. Flood extent maps, including flood depth, were generated using multi-temporal satellite images from Sentinel-1 Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) with Google Earth Engine (GEE). The Floodwater Depth Estimation Tool (FwDET-GEE) is also used to create the flood depth at Kampong Thom according to the flood extent map. The Joint Research Center (JRC) utilizes a database classification to identify damage in each Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) category in a study area, utilizing Google Earth Engine's processing capabilities for flood damage assessment, combining LULC with flood extent map and depth damage curve. The study provided flood maps and flood-prone areas with five levels of severity—very low, low, moderate, high, and very high—to understand the frequency of areas affected by the flood. The result indicates that a very high level of flood-prone area percentage frequency occurred surrounding water bodies such as lakes and rivers. Based on the flood extent map and land cover map, flood extent is mostly experienced in agriculture, forests, and urban areas. Flood maps aid policymakers, disaster management agencies, and government agencies in preventing and mitigating flood disasters while estimating economic impact aids in post-flood compensation, monitoring, and restoration efforts.

Bunthai PHONG (Primary Presenter/Author), Institute of Technology of Cambodia , bunthaiphong@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Toward dynamic ice phenology on 6 million lakes from optical satellite imagery Over half the world’s 117 million lakes are ice covered during at least some part of the season. With warming global temperatures, lake ice is being lost at a rapid pace. While there are hundreds of long-term in-situ lake ice records, detecting lake ice from satellite imagery can improve our overall spatial resolution from hundreds of lakes to nearly 6 million lakes that we can reliably detect from space. We plan to combine several proven lake ice models and data from multiple optical satellites (e.g. MODIS, Landsat) to automatically predict lake ice on the near daily timestep for the 6 million >1 ha lakes detectable by the newly launched Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite. A dynamic ice phenology record is not only necessary to accurately estimate water storage from SWOT data, but also can extend our understanding of how dynamic lake ice impacts the ecology of lakes. Specifically, lake ice duration and timing impacts light availability, temperature, and mixing, with ramifications for autotrophs and heterotrophs, alike. In some cases, the period under lake ice can be just as productive as the ice-free season, underscoring the importance of accurately detecting when there is and is not substantial ice cover. Creating a dynamic and global lake ice record will also better inform communities that rely on stable lake ice for recreation, transportation, and cultural practices.

Audrey Thellman (Primary Presenter/Author), Univeristy of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , athellma@unc.edu;

Tamlin Pavelsky (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , pavelsky@unc.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Participatory Mapping with Community Leaders: Water, Food, and Energy Insecurity Physical and Social Resources in Disaster Context In the disaster context, food, energy, and water (FEW) insecurity often heightens communities’ vulnerabilities. Addressing these insecurities requires an understanding of both physical and social resources available within the community. Using the data gathered through a participatory mapping exercise and interviews, done in a series of two-day workshops with community leaders from Corcovada in Puerto Rico, we identified physical infrastructure and social capital available to the community in the context of recurring hazards, health emergencies, and natural disasters. The participatory mapping process involved collaborative spatial identification of community resources of FEW resources during disaster-related events. Physical resources including the community’s own aqueduct, other water sources, shelter, energy infrastructure, and food pantries were mapped, along with social capital resources and support systems. By capturing this information, community leaders gain insights into the availability, accessibility, and utilization of resources, as well as their potential vulnerabilities during disasters, Grounded in a community-based participatory research approach, this exercise offers a valuable approach to identifying and analyzing these resources, enabling effective interventions and resilience-building strategies, as well as identifying possible areas where policy might be needed to improve the work of the community. Our research shows that participatory mapping with community leaders is a valuable approach to comprehensively assess physical and social resources, aiding in the formulation of informed strategies to address resource insecurities and comply with environmental justice principles for affected communities.

Kenneth Rolando De León Colón (Primary Presenter/Author), Clemson University , krdeleo@g.clemson.edu;

Génesis Alvelo Colón (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ohio State University , alvelocolon.1@buckeyemail.osu.edu ;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Assessing the Impact of Legal Shifts on Wetlands in the United States The 2023 Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court ruling narrowed the Clean Water Act's jurisdiction, defining protected wetlands as only those directly connected to permanent water bodies. This contrasts with Rapanos v. United States (2006), which emphasized a hydrologic "significant nexus" to Waters of the United States (WOTUS) for protection. The current legal definition of a protected wetland would potentially leave geographically isolated and intermittently connected wetlands vulnerable to degradation and conversion. These wetlands perform vital ecosystem services, such as nutrient retention, that are critical for broader ecosystem health. Thus, the recent loss of legal protection for these wetlands could lead to a substantial decline in the health of the WOTUS. To assess the potential consequences of restricted wetland legal protection, the study has two main objectives: 1) evaluate the effect of different protection scenarios on the proportion and distribution of wetlands that have experienced land cover/land-use conversion; 2) quantify the ecological impacts of a worst-case wetland loss scenario on nutrient retention and habitat quality. The study leverages a deep learning model developed by Simon Greenhill et al. (2024) to predict jurisdictional determinations for WOTUS with the National Land Cover Database (NLCD) to identify wetland locations and conversion patterns under the various policy regimes. Additionally, the InVEST (Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-Offs) Nutrient Delivery Ratio (NDR) Model is employed to determine the effects of land use changes on ecosystem services. By simulating worst-case scenario wetland conversions, this study emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced wetland protection.

Kylie Wadkowski (Primary Presenter/Author), Stanford University , kyliewad@stanford.edu;

Elliott White (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Stanford University , eewhite@stanford.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Wastewate Management in Coffee Processing: Interaction of Government Agencies, Private Companies, and Traditional Environmental Knowledge in the Watershed Area Arabica coffee has been promoted in recent decades as a cash crop plant that may be raised in order to prevent deforestation in Thailand's highlands. Arabica coffee is a plant that requires the shade of large trees. It can be grown well in forest areas without having to cut down trees. In addition, growing Arabica coffee can produce good yields in areas ranging from 800 - 1,200 meters above sea level. As a result, Thailand's government and private agencies have come to promote coffee cultivation in the highland areas where is also a watershed areas of the main reivers in the norther Thailand. However, in the coffee processing such as the washing and pulping process, requires a large amount of water. Moreover, after pulping, the wasted coffee pulp generate wastewater which contaminating natural water sources in the watershed areas. This presentation aims to present the development of the promotion of wastewater management by the government agencies and the private companies that come to buy coffee products. Then discuss local farmers' application of traditional environmental knowledge (TEK) in managing agricultural wastewater to understand the process of adaptation and application of knowledge in managing the agricultural wastewater of local coffee farmers in the highland watershed area.

Sawang Meesaeng (Primary Presenter/Author), Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand , sawang.mee@mfu.ac.th;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Quantifying Temporal Changes in Tonle Sap Lake: Implications for Biodiversity Conservation Our goals are i). to comprehensively analyze the changes in water level of Tonle Sap Lake (TSL) response to environmental change during the driest and wettest periods; ii). to compared the water levels at TSL before and after the Lower Sesan II dam was built. As results, we found a significant change in water levels during the wettest season, while the driest season remained stable. Sediment load from the Mekong into TSL decreased while the number of hydropower dams increased. The expansion of urban and agricultural areas around the basin also had a notable impact. This analysis not only deepens our understanding of natural variations in the TSL, but also sheds light on potential human influences resulting from the TSL and Lower Mekong Basin development. Our findings offer essential insights for biodiversity management and assist in developing more effective conservation strategies tailored to the specific environmental changes observed in the TSL. The results have broader implications for shaping sustainable policies and practices critical for preserving the unique biodiversity within the Tonle Sap Lake ecosystem.

Kimsan Chann (Primary Presenter/Author), Institute of Technology of Cambodia , sankim37@gmail.com;

Ratha Sor (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), National University of Cheasim Kamchaymear , sorsim.ratha@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Changes in natural resource access and livelihoods of residents based in Mekong's watershed, Vietnam Located in the Mekong's watershed, Tram Chim National Park is an important protected area that not only plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation but also significant effect on the development of local communities. The study's objectives are to analyze the change in access to natural resources and the livelihoods of residents. The case study was conducted through in-depth interviews, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions with 30 households and 10 government officials. The results showed that before the conservation policy, the natural resources in Tram Chim National Park were open-access, and the people's livelihood was mainly wild fishing. Since 1994, national conservation policies have been in place, and local people have been severely restricted from accessing natural resources. The conflict between the National Park and local people became severe, and the illegal exploitation of resources in the National Park exploded. In 2012, when the National Park became a Ramsar site, conservation activities were carried out according to the International Convention. Access to and use of resources has been done under the National Park's management. However, the sustainable resource use policy has been limited by the scale and duration of its application. Rice cultivation has become the main income-generating activity for local people. In this context, tourism was expected to be an activity that uses resources in Tram Chim National Park wisely, according to the Ramsar Convention. Still, in reality, it has not been promoted as expected. The participation and benefit of tourism by local people have been still limited.

Thi Khanh Van Mai (Primary Presenter/Author), Okayama University, Japan , mtkvan@hueuni.edu.vn;

Doo-Chul Kim (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Okayama University, Japan , kim@okayama.u.ac.jp;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

UTILIZATION OF PULPING AND BLEACHING EFFLUENTS TO SYNTHESIZE LIGNOCELLULOSE/GRAPHENE OXIDE FOR TREATMENT OF ANTIBIOTIC RESIDUES IN AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT Pulping and bleaching effluents of pulp mill industry (PPMS) is an organic residual. The high organic loads and solid content in those effluents affected the aquatic ecosystem in several ways such as localized damage to the benthic community, oxygen depletion in large areas and numerous changes in fish reproduction and physiology. Other impacts of this type of waste also need to be mentioned such as potential linking to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, losing energy and illegal landfilling could be viewed as a climate change mitigation measure. This study concerns the transformation of paper mill sludge into an effective adsorbent to treat antibiotics in aqueous environment. The PPMS derived biochar synthesized at a temperature of 600? for a period of two hours possessed a high carbon content, aromatic carbon rings identified by FT-IR spectroscopy. The porosity and multiple voids and folds of this material contributed to the increased adsorption of tetracycline in solution. The maximum adsorption achieved using paper mill sludge derived biochar was 24.63 mg/g for tetracycline following the Langmuir isothermal model. The combination of biochar deriving from paper mill sludge with graphene oxide also was performed to achieve the highest efficiency with a graphene oxide/biochar mass ratio of 1/20. This material was capable of processing 95.68% tetracycline, the maximum adsorption capacity qmax = 36.50 mg/g. The results of this study show that biochar made from paper mill sludge has potential applications for tetracycline treatment in water.

Minh Trang Hoang (Primary Presenter/Author), VNU University of Science , hoangminhtrang@hus.edu.vn;

Thi Minh Hang Tran (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), VNU University of Science , hangttm@hus.edu.vn ;

Tien Duc Pham (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), VNU University of Science , phamtienduc@hus.edu.vn;

Manh Khai Nguyen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), VNU University of Science , nguyenmanhkhai@hus.edu.vn;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

ASSESSMENTS OF RIPARIAN AND GROUNDWATER-DEPENDENT ECOSYSTEM CONDITION INFORMS REVISION OF NATIONAL FOREST LAND MANAGEMENT PLANS IN THE WESTERN UNITED STATES The U.S. Forest Service 2012 planning rule guides the revision of land management plans. The rule requires rapid assessment of riparian, aquatic and groundwater-dependent ecosystems (GDEs) using existing information. We used local, regional, and national datasets, as well as published and unpublished literature and reports to identify drivers, stressors, and estimate the ecological integrity of streams, riparian areas, springs, and fens in National Forests across Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, California, and Oregon. We evaluated ecosystem characteristics such as distribution, connectivity, water quality, hydrologic regime, condition of riparian vegetation, and instream habitat quality. Our results indicate the ecological integrity of these ecosystems varies widely due to climate, physical setting, management history, and interactions between natural and anthropogenic disturbances. Roads and livestock grazing tend to be major stressors and large or high-severity wildfires are increasingly affecting large sections of riparian ecosystems. Other common, but more localized stressors include dams and diversions, recreation, and invasive species. We found that data related to GDEs is often lacking. To address this gap, we mapped GDEs and associated geological features. The greatest extent of potential fens occurred in high elevation, glaciated terrain and the greatest densities of springs were in mountain ranges that contain volcanic deposits, carbonate karst, and other forms of permeable bedrock. Condition of intermittent streams and beaver activity are additional common data gaps that require more work. Our results inform needs-for-change in the updated management plan and help prioritize conservation and restoration actions, as well as mapping and monitoring efforts.

Katelyn Driscoll (Primary Presenter/Author), US Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station , katelyn.driscoll@usda.gov;

D. Max Smith (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), US Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research Station , david.smith4@usda.gov;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Effective use of sediment and organic matter mixture deposited in dams- Possibility of blueberry cultivation There are many small dams in Japan. These dams are often constructed in mountainous areas and are used for drinking water, agricultural water, and power generation. A mixture of sediment and organic matter brought from upstream accumulates in the dam, and dam operators regularly dredge it to maintain water storage capacity. There is a large amount of sediment stored in stockyards waiting to be used, but research on how to use it is still in progress, and the effective use of sediment is one of the challenges faced by dams. This research attempted to use soil dredged from the dam as cultivation soil for blueberries. Blueberries prefer acidic soil and were thought to be compatible with acidic dredged soil. After about eight years of cultivation, the blueberry trees have grown and are producing many fruits. In this study, I will report on the background, including soil components and fruit quality.

Kaori Kochi (Primary Presenter/Author), Kindai University , k-kochi@nara.kindai.ac.jp;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Analyzing Water Quality Sampling Bias in U.S. Rivers and Streams Public stream and river water quality data is widely used for research, management decisions, and building and validating hydrologic and biogeochemical models. However, publicly available water quality measurements are collected for many different reasons by many different organizations potentially resulting in a patchwork of data across US rivers. We are analyzing potential biases in public river water quality data to better understand temporal and geographic biases as well as river, watershed, and climate properties that may be over or under represented. Our results may have implications for our current understanding of water quality in US streams and may inform future monitoring, management, and research efforts.

Geetika Godavarthy (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Pittsburgh , GEG63@pitt.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Assessing the Impacts of Climate Change on Headwater Streamflow Regime in Central Appalachia, USA Headwater streamflow regimes - defined as the frequency, magnitude, duration, timing, and rate of change of surface streamflow - underpin ecosystem functions and are sensitive to variations in precipitation, temperature, and land use. While the impact of climate change on flow regimes has been broadly quantified across much of the US, its impact in the central Appalachian Region remains uncertain. The objective of this study is to quantify shifts in streamflow regimes due to climate change in two undisturbed headwater catchments in central Appalachia with hydrological statistics and trend analyses. This study utilizes a 40-year hydrologic dataset collected from Robinson Forest, located in the Appalachian region of KY. Data from two headwater catchments, characterized by similar contributing areas but distinct aspects, flow directions, and structural configurations, are examined. To assess shifts in streamflow regimes, we apply the Mann-Kendall trend test coupled with Sen’s-slope analysis, utilizing hydrologic signatures reflecting the frequency, magnitude, duration, timing, and rate of change of surface streamflow. Our investigation encompasses multiple time scales and windows providing an understanding of recent climate-change effects on headwater streamflow dynamics in Robinson Forest. Preliminary analyses indicate that the dendritic catchment with evenly distributed aspect exhibited increased streamflow permanence and magnitude, while the trellis catchment with increased southern facing slopes demonstrated increased duration of no-flow while the magnitude of high-flow events increased. Our investigation offers important insights into headwater hydrology and its susceptibility to climate variability on the Cumberland Plateau. The study may facilitate the advancing protection of vulnerable headwater stream systems.

Hasan Taylan (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Louisville , hasan.taylan@louisville.edu;

Lauren Brown (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Louisville , Lauren.brown.6@louisville.edu;

Tyler Mahone (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Louisville , tyler.mahoney@louisville.edu;

Kenton Sena (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Kentucky , kenton.sena@uky.edu;

Chris Barton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Kentucky , barton@uky.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

DEGRADED GEOMORPHOLOGY DUE TO HUMAN ACTIVITIES HAS POSED UNSUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE VIETNAMESE MEKONG DELTA Dam construction and sand mining have caused unstainable degradation of river geomorphology in the Mekong Delta in Cambodia and Vietnam, causing intensifying salinity intrusion and difficulty in freshwater intake for agricultural irrigation, thus resulting in serious social, economic, and environmental consequences and challenging the long-term sustainability of the delta. In this study, we estimated the effects of river damming and sand mining on long-term riverbank erosion and riverbed incision in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) using integrated GIS, remote sensing, and deep learning techniques and field survey-based bathymetric data from 1998 to 2020. We found that the riverbed was seriously incised in the VMD, especially in the upper part of the delta (upstream of Can Tho and My Thuan hydrological stations), with a mean incision rate of approximately 85 Mm3/year (equivalent to 0.13 m/year) which is by far higher than the sediment supply from the Mekong River. Dam-induced sediment reduction from the Mekong Basin are the main driver of large-scale riverbed incision in the VMD (up to 75%), exacerbated by sand mining. Similarly, over 48% of the riverbank length (682 km long with 66.8 km2 in area) in the VMD is undergoing erosion, affecting 31,273 people with an economic loss estimated at US$799.5 million. To sustainably share water resource benefits in the Mekong region, the Mekong’s countries are highly recommended to cooperate for effective transboundary management before irreversible damage is caused to the Mekong and its population.

Doan Van Binh (Primary Presenter/Author), Vietnamese German University , binh.dv@vgu.edu.vn;

Menna A.F.Z. Ahmed (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kyoto University , engmenna.ahmed50@yahoo.com;

Thi Huong Vu (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Technische Universität Dresden , thi_huong.vu@tu-dresden.de;

Le Van Quyen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Vietnamese-German University , quyenlv0223@gmail.com;

Sameh A. Kantoush (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Kyoto University , kantoush.samehahmed.2n@kyoto-u.ac.jp;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

COMPARATIVE IMPACTS OF HYDROPOWER DEVELOPMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE ON DOWSTREAM FLOW IN THE UPPER MEKONG RIVER BASIN This study presents a critical analysis of the dual impacts of hydropower development and climate change on the downstream flow regimes in the Upper Mekong River Basin, a region pivotal for its ecological and economic significance in Southeast Asia. The Mekong River, supporting diverse ecosystems and millions of livelihoods, is currently undergoing transformative changes due to anthropogenic and climatic influences. This research aims to dissect and compare the effects of upstream hydropower projects and climate variability on the river’s downstream hydrology. Utilizing a blend of hydrological models and climate change projections from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6, the study examines alterations in flow patterns resulting from hydropower development in the upper basin. These impacts are contrasted with those stemming from climate change, particularly shifts in precipitation, temperature fluctuations, and glacial melting dynamics. Key findings indicate that hydropower interventions lead to immediate and localized changes in river flow, while climate change drives broader, long-term hydrological shifts. The synergy of these factors poses significant challenges for downstream ecosystems, agriculture, fisheries, and community livelihoods. The implications of these findings are significant for the Mekong's downstream communities, ecosystems, and economies, which rely on the river's natural flow patterns. This research serves as a critical resource for international dialogue and cooperation, guiding effective policy and management decisions to safeguard the future of this vital riverine ecosystem in a rapidly changing global climate context.

Phanmany Savathdy (Primary Presenter/Author), Lao National Mekong Committee Secretariat , totohidekider@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Automated Measures of Channel Dimensions over Stream Networks High resolution stream maps are increasingly derived from digital data, and geomorphic interpretations of local terrain play an outsize role in determining the extent and location of mapped channel networks. We have developed an entirely automated approach for resolving "hyper"-resolution channel networks across eight-digit hydrologic units using 1-m lidar terrain, recently applied over the entire Chesapeake Bay watershed. Our method for automated channel extraction uses concepts from computer vision to classify discrete geomorphic features, and we have augmented this process to extract and summarize estimates of channel width and bank height developed over hundreds to thousands of pixels for each reach. Here we compare automated to manual measures of the distribution of channel dimensions relative to stream order over various physiographic and land use contexts to illustrate the precision obtained by automated measurement and to highlight variation in patterns of hydraulic geometry that may be useful in understanding and characterizing aquatic habitat.

Matthew Baker (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Maryland Baltimore County , mbaker@umbc.edu;

Nicati Robidoux (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Maryland Baltimore County , nicrobi1@umbc.edu;

Xuezhi Cang (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Maryland Baltimore County , xcang@umbc.edu;

David Saavedra (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Chesapeake Concervancy , dsaavedra@chesapeakeconservancy.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Ecological responses to water temperature variability: Insights from streams and reservoirs in the Ohio River Basin Aquatic ecosystems are fundamentally shaped by water temperature, which affects many processes including nutrient cycling, metabolism, and primary production. In addition, water temperature determines the availability of suitable habitat for aquatic organisms and affects their physiology and behavior. From 2018-2020, temperature loggers were deployed at six-hour intervals in streams across Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, USA. In reservoirs, multiparameter sondes measured temperature and algal pigments every 30 min during summer and autumn of 2018-2022. Using these data, we investigate the overall spatial and temporal variability of stream and reservoir thermal regimes and examine the potential of environmental factors, including air temperature and streamflow variability, to predict thermal regime patterns. We also explore the influence of water temperature variability on the abundance and community dynamics of phytoplankton and benthic algae. This study contributes to the development of a hierarchical model linking climate, land use, and ecological condition. Broadly, our research aims to advance comprehension of thermal variability in the context of global environmental change and aims to evaluate the consequences of potential thermal regime shifts on the community composition, trophic interactions, and habitat conditions of aquatic organisms such as algae, macroinvertebrates, and fish.

Nayeli K. Sanchez (Primary Presenter/Author), Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science , nayelis@clemson.edu;

Mažeika P. Sulliván (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science , mazeiks@clemson.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

WOODS TO WATER (W2W): LEVERAGING THE UNIQUE BIODIVERSITY OF THE SOUTHEASTERN USA FOR TRAINING IN ECOLOGY AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT The Southeastern US (SEUS), a global biodiversity hotspot, boasts >1500 species of vascular plants, 79% of freshwater fish, and 91% of the mussel species occurring within the US. Undergraduate students in the SEUS interested in ecology and conservation have unique opportunities to learn about aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity in this globally recognized region. Yet, opportunities for experience-based learning about SEUS ecosystems may be limited for many students by historical and systematic challenges including: 1) the lack of accessible public lands (>90% of land in the SEUS is private); 2) limited physical infrastructure to teach ecosystem-scale research; and 3) insufficient field and classroom training opportunities, including working with Big Data. Additionally, lack of research training opportunities disproportionately impacts first-generation and historically underrepresented groups in STEM disciplines. The Woods to Water (W2W) project will address these challenges by training post baccalaureates in ecological field techniques and data sciences that link water availability to carbon and nutrient fluxes among ecosystems focused on the forests and streams of the SEUS. Our W2W program aims to broaden participation in field ecology by providing an immersive experience leveraging training with NSF’s National Ecological Observatory Network sites in the SEUS (Domains 3 and 8); research scientists at the Jones Center at Ichauway; and ongoing NSF projects at The University of Alabama. W2W will provide participants the opportunity to transition into the ecological workforce, which will diversify science and support the growing need to understand ecosystems in the face of a changing world.

Carla L. Atkinson (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Alabama , carlalatkinson@gmail.com;

Arial Shogren (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , ashogren@ua.edu;

Heidi Benstead (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , heidi.benstead@ua.edu;

Jeffery Cannon (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Jones Center , jeffery.cannon@jonesctr.org;

Guy Fausnaught (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), National Ecological Observatory Network , gfausnaught@battelleecology.org;

Beth Fugate (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), National Ecological Observatory Network , fugate@battelleecology.org;

Lisa Giencke (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Jones Center , lisa.giencke@jonesctr.org;

Stephen Golladay (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia Water Planning and Policy Center at ASU , steve.golladay@jonesctr.org;

Kaleb Heinrich (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , kheinrich@ua.edu;

Nick Marzolf (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Jones Center , nmarzolf@jonesctr.org;

Elica Moss (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Alabama A&M University , elica.moss@aamu;

Bill Pine (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Florida , billpine@ufl.edu;

Gregory Starr (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , gstarr@ua.edu;

Christina Staudhammer (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , cstaudhammer@ua.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

THE LEARNING FROM LAKE STURGEON MAGAZINE: A GRAPHICAL TOOL FOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT GUIDED BY MOOSE CREE FIRST NATION’S PRINCIPLES, VALUES, AND INTERESTS The Learning from Lake Sturgeon program (https://learningfromlakesturgeon.ca/) is a multidisciplinary endeavor which aims to better understand the health of the Moose River and its fish using both Indigenous Ways of Knowing and scientific tools. Since 2016, non-profit, academic, and government scientists have partnered with researchers from Moose Cree First Nation (MCFN) to study the rivers within their Traditional Homeland. Namew (Moose Cree L-dialect, lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens) has been a focal species of interest, given their cultural importance to Moose Cree Peoples and their status as an internationally endangered species. Namew research by the LFLS team has included telemetry tracking, dietary modeling, contaminant monitoring, and multi-omic analyses, all of which help us better understand the impacts of a large hydroelectric complex on the ecology and management of this important fish species. In 2023, the LFLS team created a graphical magazine explaining our collective research efforts and results to-date. The magazine was handed out at a LFLS booth at the Gathering of Our People (GOOP), an important annual community event within MCFN. This poster will show how this magazine was conceptualized and created, as well as the observed impact, with the goal of informing other community research programs. Additional engagement activities and the ethical frameworks guiding our broader collaborations will also briefly be discussed. This work represents only the views and understanding of the individual co-authors; it should not be referenced as a representation of the Ililiwak Indigenous Knowledge System nor a position of Moose Cree First Nation as a whole.

Jennifer Simard (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Moose Cree First Nation , jennifer.simard@moosecree.com;

Denina Simmons (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ontario Tech University , denina.simmons@ontariotechu.ca;

Claire Ferrell (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Wildlife Conservation Society Canada , cfarrell@wcs.org;

Keisha Deoraj (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ontario Tech University , keisha.deoraj@ontariotechu.net;

Jacob Seguin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), McGill University , jacob.seguin@mail.mcgill.ca;

Gretchen Lescord (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Florida , lescord.g@ufl.edu;

Connie O'Connor (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Wildlife Conservation Society Canada , coconnor@wcs.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Freshwater Teaching, Outreach, and Research Resources and Educational Networking Tool (Freshwater TORRENT) The SFS Education and Diversity committee (EDC) has developed a publicly available working list of useful resources for teaching, undergraduate research, and public outreach. Over the next few years, EDC aims to curate this list, highlight freshwater-specific resources, and create a list of highest needs for development of new resources. Within SFS, we recognize the need to leverage existing resources, such as the Making Waves Podcast and the Article Spotlight of In The Drift, which offer insight into the author perspectives and experiences of people doing science. Broadly, a number of STEM education resources are clearinghouses that include curriculum modules in ecology that can be integrated into freshwater courses, e.g., the Science Education Resource Center (SERC) at Carleton College, Quantitative Undergraduate Biology Education and Synthesis (QUBES), and the Environmental Protection Agency Watershed Academy. Other opportunities include recent initiatives such as the River Field Studies Network (RFSN) which builds capacity across institutions for field based education at multiple scales (lab to multi-day float trip). RFSN River Rendezvous Scholars work collaboratively to develop and test field-based curriculum modules which are then housed on the QUBES platform. We also aim to include resources to enhance diversity, equity, inclusivity, and belonging in freshwater science education, including resources supporting more inclusive fieldwork. Future resources could include a curated list of textbooks for teaching, book reviews, example course syllabi from members, and a list of members willing to give online (or in person) guest lectures. We encourage contributions of useful resources from SFS members.

Elizabeth Sudduth (Primary Presenter/Author), Georgia Gwinnett College , esudduth@ggc.edu;

Vanessa Czeszynski (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Minnesota , vanessa.czeszynski@gmail.com;

Alyssa Anderson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Southwest Minnesota State University , alyssa.anderson@smsu.edu;

Sandra Clinton (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of North Carolina Charlotte , sclinto1@uncc.edu;

Fredric Govedich (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Southern Utah University , govedich@suu.edu;

Roger Haro (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Northern Arizona University , roger.haro@nau.edu;

Patina Mendez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of California, Berkeley , patina.mendez@berkeley.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

FLORIDA LAKEWATCH – CONTINUING AND MODERNIZING THE SUCCESSFUL USE OF CITIZEN SCIENCE FOR FRESHWATER MONITORING AND RESEARCH Florida LAKEWATCH is one of the country’s largest volunteer science programs. Since its inception in 1986, LAKEWATCH has monitored the monthly water quality of over 6000 sites across more than 2000 lakes, rivers, and coastlines around the state of Florida. All water samples are collected by our 1800 robustly trained and dedicated volunteers, some of whom have been a part of our program for 37 years. The resulting >437,000 data points have been shared with collaborating scientists from over 25 countries and used in over 60 peer-reviewed papers and 40 student theses, impacting on our collective understanding of sub-tropical limnology. This poster will focus on our successful and long-standing practices for engaging and retaining volunteers through communication and data sharing strategies, including quarterly newsletters, regional meetings, and celebratory practices. Recently under new leadership, LAKEWATCH has begun studying and modernizing our practices, to attract the next generation of samplers. This includes quantifying the consistent engagement of our volunteers through scientific surveys and newly identified key performance indicators, the preliminary methods and results from which are included in this poster. Moving forward, LAKEWATCH is interested in expanding our scope – to new sampling sites and new parameters (e.g., mercury) – while researching issues of both emerging and long-standing concern for inland waters in Florida and beyond. We hope this poster will inform other volunteer-based water programs and initiate new collaborations and uses of our long-term and valuable water chemistry data.

Elizabeth Moreau (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Florida , duermite@ufl.edu;

Marina Schwartz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Florida , marinaschwartz@ufl.edu;

Gretchen Lescord (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Florida , lescord.g@ufl.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

The impact of virtual conferences on participation by diverse organizations and individuals The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a rapid shift to virtual conferences, which became the dominant vehicle for research knowledge sharing for approximately two years. During this period (2020 - 2021), chronic barriers to participation became more apparent as previously excluded groups took advantage of virtual formats, with dramatic increases in the numbers and the diversity of conference attendees. Our research leverages this information to assess the implications of virtual and hybrid conferences to increase participation by individuals from a diverse set of organizations, including academic and non-academic. In this NSF BIO-LEAPS project, we partner with four professional societies (SFS, AFS, TWS, and ESA) to examine trends in organizational diversity of conference attendees prior to, during, and post-pandemic. We define organizational diversity as institutions that have historically been underrepresented at scientific conferences, including: Native American nations, Minority Serving Institutions, non-research-intensive colleges (not R1), industry/consultants, non-profit organizations, and government. Partner societies contributed de-identified conference attendance data spanning 2017-2023, and we analyzed the organizational makeup of conference attendees based on reported affiliations and email domains by linking them to classifications of academic and non-academic entities. Our findings show that although the shift to virtual increased participation of some types of non-academic organizations and early-career researchers, conference attendance remains largely dominated by research-intensive academic organizations. The role of conferences in promoting diverse scientific networks and collaborations should continue to be critically examined by scientific communities.

Lauren Kuehne (Primary Presenter/Author), Omfishient Consulting, LLC , lauren.kuehne@gmail.com;

Megan Fork (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), West Chester University , mfork@wcupa.edu;

Bethan Laursen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Laursen Evaluation and Design (LEAD) LLC , bethany@bethanylaursen.com;

Jane Rogosch (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey, Texas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit/Texas Tech University , jrogosch@ttu.edu;

Adrienne Sponberg (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Ecological Society of America , adrienne@esa.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Bridging community science and standardized bird-based biotic indices to advance watershed monitoring. Measuring ecosystem integrity at a watershed scale may be important to understanding conservation options and setting priorities. However, most watershed integrity indices to date have relied on data for aquatic macroinvertebrates, fish, and algae, which may be expensive and time consuming to collect relative to more easily observed and identified terrestrial taxa such as birds. The popularity of birding and recent increases in community science bird projects suggest that they may provide a promising source of relatively inexpensive and abundant data. However, it remains unclear to what extent community science generated data on birds can be used to inform watershed bio-assessments. We seek to develop an avian biotic index to assess the condition of the Upper Tana Watershed in Kenya as a case study. We are using community science-collected bird data from the Kenya Bird Map project and remotely sensed environmental variables in the context of a disturbance gradient to inform our model of watershed integrity. A preliminary bird-based Biological Condition Gradient matrix based primarily on forest birds includes 6 tiers. Specific results of this work may aid in environmental management and monitoring of the Upper Tana River watershed. More broadly, community science bird data applied to watershed bioassessments may present new opportunities to connect avian monitoring with freshwater science while engaging the public.

Edwin Njuguna (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Maine , edwin.njuguna@maine.edu;

Christina A. Murphy (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey, Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Orono, ME , christina.murphy@maine.edu;

Cynthia Loftin (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey, Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit , cynthia.loftin@maine.edu;

David Courtemanch (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Nature Conservancy, Maine, USA , david.courtemanch@tnc.org;

Malcolm Hunter (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Maine , mhunter@maine.edu;

Peter Njoroge (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya , pnjoroge@museums.or.ke;

Brian McGill (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Maine , brian.mcgill@maine.edu ;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Linthipe River Ecosystem: Unveiling Economic Dimensions for Sustainable Conservation and Livelihoods in Malawi Many rivers worldwide, including the Linthipe River in the East African Rift Valley, need well-documented economic values that could persuade riparian countries to step up efforts to manage aquatic resources effectively. This study measured the value people derive from using the aquatic resources from the Linthipe River. Linthipe River as one of the major tributaries of Lake Malawi provides a lot of ecosystem services of high economic value. Data were collected randomly sampled from October 2019 to July 2020 through 391 households (74% male and 26% female). Data was collected using household questionnaires, document reviews, Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions, field observations, Willingness to Pay (WTP) method. The study calculated the Gross Financial Value (GFV) from the data to estimate the economic values for direct-use services. At the same time, the Payout Level (PoL) for users’ WTP provided the values for non-use services. The study revealed that the Total Economic Value of the Goods and Services generated from the Linthipe River was US Dollars (US$) 116,312.38 (US$16,172.08 GFV and USD 100,140.30 PoL). The study showed that the Linthipe River has a comparatively high economic value, which depicts the great significance of the river to the surrounding communities. This calls for all stakeholders to manage the rift valley rivers holistically.

Gladys Chigamba (Primary Presenter/Author), Department of Fisheries, Malawi , glachigamba@yahoo.com;

Moses Limuwa (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources , mlimuwa@luanar.ac.mw;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Temperature and predation effects on planktonic community size distribution Individual body sizes throughout planktonic communities are expected to change with the increasing temperatures due to climate change. Increasing temperatures are expected to decrease mean body size, leading to a higher abundance of smaller individuals relative to larger individuals. However, body sizes can also be impacted by food web structure, yet it is unclear how the food web structure interacts with temperature. We used mesocosms to test how planktonic body size distribution was impacted by increased temperatures, the presence of fish, and a combination of both. Body sizes were measured by the Countess 3 Cell Counter. A generalized linear mixed model was used to estimate the change in the size spectrum exponent across treatments. Preliminary results suggest that there was no difference in the size distribution between the ambient temperature and heated tanks. However, the presence of fish does result in a more negative exponent than tanks with no fish, suggesting lower relative abundance of large individuals, though the effect size was negligible. This lack of difference between the ambient and heated tanks deviates from the expected response of body size distribution with the warming annual temperatures.

Staci Reynolds (Primary Presenter/Author), University of South Dakota , staci.reynolds@coyotes.usd.edu;

Vojsava Gjoni (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of South Dakota , vojsava.gjoni@usd.edu;

Jeff Wesner (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of South Dakota , Jeff.Wesner@usd.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Interaction of Temperature and Nutrients on Macroinvertebrate Size Spectra Across ecosystems, body size changes seem to be regulated by temperature. However, body size is likely to be regulated by organisms in response to resource (food) availability as well. These changes can be measured across communities using size spectra, which describes the relative abundance of large to small individuals in an ecosystem. To understand how size spectra may change with different temperatures and potentially be offset by nutrient levels, a mesocosm experiment was conducted in the summer of 2022. Mesocosms were large, outdoor controlled tanks that simulate natural stream ecosystems; macroinvertebrate species naturally colonize them (Experimental Aquatic Research Site at USD). The experiment consisted of twenty-four tanks using a full-factorial design with two levels of temperature (unheated vs. heated), two levels of nutrients (ambient vs. enriched), and their interaction (n = 6 replicates each). Samples of macroinvertebrates from each tank were measured for body length using the program ImageJ. From the heated tanks, the relative abundance of larger organisms was much higher than expected from theory, but the increase depended largely on whether nutrients were added or not. The relative abundance of large individuals increased with temperature, but only in the tanks without added nutrients. With added nutrients, the relative abundance of large individuals decreased. These findings complicate predictions of food web change in response to nutrients and temperature, which have predicted reductions in large individuals with temperature unless there is a corresponding increase in resource supply; the opposite of our findings.

Aria Smith (Primary Presenter/Author), University of South Dakota , aria.smith@coyotes.usd.edu;

Vojsava Gjoni (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of South Dakota , vojsava.gjoni@usd.edu;

Jeff Wesner (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of South Dakota , Jeff.Wesner@usd.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Pre and post remediation and restoration analysis of benthic macroinvertebrate size spectra in the Upper Arkansas River, Colorado The relationship between body mass and abundance of organisms within a system is defined as size spectra. This pattern illustrates how energy flows through an ecosystem by indicating that there are fewer large individuals compared to small ones. Body mass-abundance distributions are relatively consistent across natural communities and habitats, with evidence suggesting that anthropogenic disturbances, such as stream degradation through mining, alter the slope of the size spectra. Some researchers have proposed that body mass-abundance relationships are useful indicators of ecological function and may provide a better understanding of the energetics within benthic communities. Size spectra has previously been used as a biomonitoring tool within degraded freshwater streams but remains understudied because of limited pre-treatment data and post-restoration monitoring. Here, we analyze the size spectra of benthic macroinvertebrate communities from the Upper Arkansas River before and after water quality remediation and habitat restoration conducted over a 30-year period. We take into account the streams’ significant history, including the initial discharge of metal concentrations, the listing of the stream as an USEPA Superfund Site, the remediation of metal contamination, and large scale habitat restoration projects. Our results show that macroinvertebrate size spectra approached reference conditions soon after improvements in water quality and habitat were observed, supporting the use of this novel approach for ecological assessments. This study is the first to document the application of size spectra to assess responses to remediation and restoration efforts in freshwater streams.

Taylor Beach (Primary Presenter/Author,Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Colorado State University , taylor16beach@gmail.com;

Lindsey Muniz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Colorado State University , Lindsey.Muniz@colostate.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

UTILIZING EDNA TO TRACK AMERICAN SHAD MIGRATION POST DAM REMOVAL In 2021, the Musconetcong Watershed Association (MWA), explored the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis as opposed to traditional fish assessment methods such as electroshocking: a transition brought on in part by Covid-related challenges. The motivation behind assessing the fish populations in the river comes from the American shad, a target species in the Musconetcong River, as this historic fish had been cut off from their habitats for over a century in the Musconetcong due to the construction of several, now disused dams. In 2017, American shad were documented in the river, and following the dam removal of the Finesville and Hughesville dam, it was crucial to track their progression up the river. By employing eDNA sampling post-removal of the Hughesville dam, the MWA, aimed to understand any change in American shad migration patterns. While expected data aligned with observations, the unexpected presence of European and Japanese eel DNA prompted further investigation. While the goal of the study was to track migratory fish expansion throughout the watershed, the presence of unexpected data poses questions which require a closer investigation of eel populations and the potential impacts they may have on the ecosystem.

Craig Fleming (Primary Presenter/Author), Musconetcong Watershed Association , craig@musconetcong.org;

Christa Reeves (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Musconetcong Watershed Association , christa@musconetcong.org;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

TEMPORAL VARIATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL DNA (EDNA) EXPORT AT A POND-STREAM INTERFACE Sampling genetic material shed into the environment by an organism (i.e., environmental DNA, hereafter eDNA), allows us to detect populations of invasive, endangered, and/or rare aquatic species using water sampling. While eDNA is an efficient method of organismal detection compared to conventional sampling, our understanding of eDNA transport is still limited, particularly at the interfaces of aquatic systems, such as from lentic to lotic ecosystems. To explore eDNA dynamics in a small stream, we previously attempted to measure transport of ambient eDNA from fish downstream of a small pond, but unexpectedly discovered short-term variation in source eDNA concentration as it moved from pond outlet to stream. To address this, over four seasons (spring, summer, fall, and winter), we collected water samples from the outflow of Lawler Pond into a first-order stream at the Fort Custer Training Center, MI, and quantified eDNA concentrations for two fish species (Bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus and Largemouth Bass, Micropterus salmoides),. During each temporal sampling, we collected 250-mL water samples every 15 min for two hours, and we found the concentrations of eDNA varied across the sampling period during all seasons. The average eDNA concentration among seasons was highest in the fall and lowest in the spring, which contradicted our expectations based on known activity patterns for Bluegill and Bass, especially as they related to environmental metrics (e.g., temperature) paired with mixing dynamics. These results suggest complex and temporally-variable dynamics of eDNA fate and transport at a pond-stream interface.

Mikaelis Anderson (Primary Presenter/Author), Goshen College , manderson@goshen.edu;

Jennifer L. Tank (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Notre Dame , jtank@nd.edu;

Elise Snyder (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Notre Dame , esnyder4@nd.edu;

Pedro Brandao-Dias (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Rice University , pb21@rice.edu;

Kyle Bibby (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Notre Dame , kbibby@nd.edu;

Arial Shogren (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Alabama , ashogren@ua.edu;

Diogo Bolster (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Notre Dame , diogo.bolster.5@nd.edu;

Scott Egan (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), scott.p.egan@rice.edu , Rice University;

Gary Lamberti (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Notre Dame , glambert@nd.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

WATER QUALITY AND ECOHYDROLOGIC CHANGES INDUCED BY COASTAL DAM REMOVAL Despite decades of research on restoration in both freshwater and estuarine systems, there are limited examples of lentic coastal freshwater systems being converted to lotic, tidally-influenced saltwater environments during restoration. The need for such projects will likely become more common as sea level rise and managed infrastructure retreat alters the location and dynamics of freshwater-saltwater interfaces. Our study aims to expand characterization of water quality and riparian ecohydrologic processes in a coastal reservoir that has experienced episodic and progressive salinization due to sea level rise and dam overtopping at high tides as well as impairment by algal blooms. We present preliminary results from a suite of high-frequency sensors that have been monitoring surface and riparian groundwater levels, salinity, and dissolved oxygen in the period before and after dam removal. Ultimately, our study will provide insight into ecosystem responses to such a deliberate and relatively rapid transformation of such systems.

Amanda Greenhalgh (Primary Presenter/Author), Roger Williams University , mgreenhalgh559@g.rwu.edu;

Alex Smith (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Roger Williams University , asmith804@g.rwu.edu;

Joel Singley (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Roger Williams University , jsingley@rwu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Comparing Aquatic Community Composition and Function in At-Risk Coastal Freshwater Habitats The frequency and magnitude of coastal salinity intrusion events are expected to increase due to the combined effects of coastal landscape modification, relative sea level rise, and a predicted increase in storm events. Salinization of coastal freshwater wetlands has the potential to cause decreases in functional ecological integrity via community replacement. The effects of salinization on core ecosystem processes, such as detrital decomposition, require further investigation due to its complexity. Additionally, intolerant plants and aquatic organisms are at risk due to the inability to adapt to changes in salt concentration. Macroinvertebrates can be used as a bioindicator for this reason due a range of tolerances. Fish exhibit the same continuum, but have yet to be evaluated in these systems. An artificial canal created for swamp drainage in the 1800s will be compared to disconnected freshwater wetlands in the interior of Sapelo Island, one of Georgia’s barrier islands. It is hypothesized the disconnected sites do not experience intrusion events, thus highlighting the impairment of the canal ecosystem, and risk of future imperilment of the disconnected wetlands. The study will investigate differences using three components: establishment of a long-term passive water parameter monitoring network, decomposition utilizing leaf packs, and community sampling of macroinvertebrates and fishes. A preliminary laboratory study revealed increases in salinity exposure was correlated with a decrease in decomposition rate of leaves. It is predicted impairment will be visualized through high shifts in salinity, lower decomposition rates, and reduced diversity and abundances of macroinvertebrates and fishes in the canal sites.

Zach Gordon (Primary Presenter/Author), Georgia Southern University , zg01859@georgiasouthern.edu;

Raymond Kidder (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia Southern University , rkidder@georgiasouthern.edu;

Checo Colon-Gaud (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Georgia Southern University , jccolongaud@georgiasouthern.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

A FRAMEWORK FOR INTEGRATING STREAM ECOSYSTEM THEORIES INTO SPATIAL MODELLING OF FISH RICHNESS AND ASSEMBLAGE STRUCTURE Freshwater streams are frequently fragmented by infrastructures that have the potential to affect stream fish assemblages. Riverscape concepts such as the river continuum concept (RCC), serial discontinuity concept (SDC), and network dynamics hypothesis (NDH) conceptualize the roles of natural and anthropogenic fragmentation in structuring longitudinal gradients in streams. We surveyed fish assemblages and habitat variables across three years from 40 sites along White Creek to test theory-based hypotheses regarding the structuring of fish metacommunities. We constructed asymmetric eigenvector maps (AEMs) that integrated aspects of the RCC, NDH, and SDC theories. We hypothesized that: (H1) fish species richness would increase longitudinally downstream but fragmentation by road-stream crossings would cause repeated disruptions to this increase, (H2) spatial contexts based on the RCC, SDC, and NDH would explain more variation in metacommunity structure compared to a neutral model (NM), and (H3) distinct fish assemblages would exist within fragments of stream between impassable road-stream crossings. Competing models based on stream theories revealed the SDC was the top-ranked model for predicting longitudinal increase in species richness, supporting H1. Spatial variables from the AEMs explained more variation in assemblage structure relative to the NM (particularly that of the SDC), supporting H2. Assemblage clustering and ordination showed unique assemblage structure in three of the four fragments, providing partial support for H3. Our results advance the goal of bridging the gap between theory and conservation of stream fishes by revealing that integration of stream ecosystem theories provides insight to the origins of spatial processes that regulate assemblage structure.

Joshuah Perkin (Primary Presenter/Author), Texas A&M University , jperkin@tamu.edu;

Lauren Yancy (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Alaska Department of Fish and Game , laurenyancy1@gmail.com;

Noah Santee (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas A&M , noahthelefty22@tamu.edu;

Matthew Madewell (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas Water Development Board , matthewmadewell20@gmail.com;

Fernando Chavez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Yes Prep Public Schools , fernando.chavez@yesprep.org;

Emily Parker (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas A&M University , emilybethparker@gmail.com;

Lucas Stevens (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas A&M University , lucaswstevens@tamu.edu;

Hannah Evans (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas A&M University , hannah.a.evans@tamu.edu;

Jacob Wolff (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Texas A&M University , jake4230@tamu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Exploring the Concept of Connectivity in Rivers: A Social-Ecological Perspective The Anthropocene era is marked by widespread human intervention, including river alterations that have transformed our relationship with these vital resources. While rivers historically served for navigation, subsistence, and cultural purposes, recent uses like power generation highlight the need for diverse disciplinary perspectives. Left unaltered, rivers connect biodiversity within freshwater ecosystems and integrate landscapes, providing ecological and socio-economic benefits. However, dams, levees, and unregulated policies disrupt natural flow, hindering human and ecological connection. Recognizing the sensitivity of rivers and the limitations of purely ecological approaches, research has shifted towards social-ecological systems. Integrating knowledge from both social and ecological studies remains a challenge, hindering our ability to sustainably manage water resources. My research delves into the ongoing debate around river connectivity by examining the perspectives of (i) freshwater ecology, (ii) political ecology, and (iii) Indigenous studies. This study aims to: 1) explore how each field defines and conceptualizes "connectivity" within river systems, and 2) identify areas of overlap and how these perspectives contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of social-ecological connectivity in river basins worldwide. This research has the potential to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, inform river basin conservation policies and practices, and elevate the voices of Indigenous knowledge holders in sustainable river management.

Stephannie Fernandes (Primary Presenter/Author), , stephanniesf@gmail.com;

Elizabeth P Anderson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Florida International University , epanders@fiu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Environmental factors determining the distribution of a rare Ohio fish, Notropis ariommus Water pollution, habitat destruction, and flow modification of natural water bodies create tremendous stress for aquatic organisms, and nearly a quarter of freshwater fish worldwide are considered threatened. This study aims to examine the current distribution and habitat needs of the Popeye Shiner (Notropis ariommus), a small fish native to North America with a narrow distribution in Ohio, where it is found only in Scioto Brush Creek in Scioto and Adams counties. In order to determine the distribution and relative abundance of the Popeye Shiner, we conducted fish community sampling at sites throughout Scioto Brush Creek. Species co-occurrence analysis revealed that Popeye Shiner was positively associated with species including Silver Shiner (Notropis photogenis) and was negatively associated with species including Rainbow Darter (Etheostoma caeruleum). Catch per unit effort (CPUE) of Popeye Shiners was positively correlated with drainage area (R2 = 0.355), supporting previous reports that the species is found predominantly in small to medium rivers and is absent from headwaters. Some sites were previously sampled in 1985 or 2006, so Popeye Shiner abundance (percent of total catch) was compared between sampling events with paired t-tests. Comparing only these sites that were repeated, Popeye Shiner percent abundance did not differ significantly between 1985 and 2023 (p = 0.745) but was marginally higher in 2023 than in 2006 (p = 0.0736). Further data analysis will include water temperature, riparian land use, and habitat quality. Results will be shared with state and federal agencies to better inform future management decisions about the species.

Tyler Johnson (Primary Presenter/Author), The Ohio State University , johnson.9808@osu.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Macroecology, Morphometric And Host Parasite Relationship In Margaritifera margaritifera In Coastal Zone Of Niger Delta (Bayelsa State) Nigeria. A transverse analysis on macroecology, morphometric and host-parasite relationship was carried out between June to November, 2018. The aim was to determine the macroecology, morphometric and host-parasite relationship in M. magaritifera in Nun River Peremabiri, Southern Ijaw Bayelsa State, Nigeria. 442 mussels were collected for the study. Physico-chemical analysis was carried out on the water sample to determine depth, water velocity, turbidity, hydrogen ion concentration pH, BOD, COD, DO, alkalinity, phosphate and nitrate. pH fluctuated between (7.467 – 7.587). Turbidity recorded in wet/dry season was (8.807 NTU) and (0.009 NTU). Alkaline concentrations for wet/dry season were 180.3 mg/L and 181.37 mg/L. Phosphate value was 0.007 mg/L and 0.013 mg/L for wet/dry season. DO for wet/ dry season were 2.654 mg/L and 3.16 mg//L, concentration for nitrate in wet/dry season were 0.896 (mg/L) and 1.838 mg/L. BOD recorded in wet/ dry season were 78.32 mg/L and 81.55 mg/L. COD in wet/ dry season were 159.35 mg/L and 126.35 mg/L. The COD/BOD ratios for wet/ dry season were 2.03 and 1.54. Diversity in M. magaritifera occurred highest in November while July had the least. Growth performance index showed August had the oldest M. margaritifera. PCA of M. margaritifera showed morphological similarity in shell elongation 54.5%, shell inflation 45.4%, (shell elongation - shell inflation 52.6%, shell angle 47.4%). Examination of the crushed digestive gland, showed Oocysts, gematocytes of Namatopsis sp with prevalence 1.30 %, and 0.17% intensity. Keywords: Margaritifera margaritifera, shell elongation, shell angle, shell inflation, Oocyst, gematocyst Nematopsis sp.

Chukwuka Uzoma (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Nigeria, Nsukka , uzomachukwuka77@gmail.com;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

THE FRESHWATER MUSSELS OF OKLAHOMA Freshwater mussels are bivalve mollusks in the order Unionida. Freshwater mussels occur on every continent except Antarctica. North America contains a high diversity of mussels, with approximately 300 species. Oklahoma is home to nearly 60 species of mussels, with the highest diversity and abundance in rivers in the eastern part of the state. We imaged mussel shells from the Oklahoma Biological Survey Mussel Collection, Arkansas State University Museum of Zoology Mollusk Collection, and the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Zoological Collection. We compiled distribution information for each species from museum records and our own field surveys and used these data along with the images to produce a web site (https://www.okmussels.com/) and poster on the freshwater mussels of Oklahoma for educators and the general public.

Caryn C. Vaughn (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Oklahoma , cvaughn@ou.edu;

Alex Franzen (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Oklahoma , ajfranzen@ou.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Run-Of-River Dam Impacts On Water Quality And Freshwater Mussels In Massachusetts (USA) Dams impact stream ecosystems by altering hydrology, sediment regimes, and water quality, thereby impacting aquatic biota. The ecosystems upstream and downstream of a dam can become quite different over time, affecting organisms such as freshwater mussels (Bivalvia: Unionidae) that are dispersed by host fishes and have distinct habitat requirements. We assessed the impact of the Wheelwright Dam on the Ware River in Massachusetts by comparing water quality and mussel assemblages in free-flowing reaches above and below the dam. We collected one-time data on water quality (YSI) in August 2023. Visual mussel snorkel surveys were conducted to record abundance in a 50-meter-long area at each site in June 2023. Preliminary analyses suggest that pH was the only water quality parameter that was statistically different between sites (p = 0.007), with higher values upstream. Mussel species richness increased from the upstream site (Elliptio complanata) to the downstream sites (Elliptio complanata, Alasmidonta undulata, and Strophitus undulatus). In addition, mussel species abundance increased on average by 520% from upstream to downstream. This study will provide information on existing freshwater mussel populations and water quality that may be used to assess the potential ecological responses to the upcoming phased dam removal.

Julia Hatzis (Primary Presenter/Author), Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts Amherst , jhatzis@umass.edu;

Alexa Hershberger (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Organismic and Evolutionary Biology Program, Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Massachusetts Amherst , ahershberger@umass.edu;

Allison Roy (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey, Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Massachusetts Amherst , aroy@eco.umass.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

YELLOW LAMPMUSSEL DISTRIBUTION IN THE CONNECTICUT RIVER: CONNECTING HABITAT USE TO SPECIES PRESENCE FOR FUTURE CONSERVATION Yellow Lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) are a state-endangered freshwater mussel species in Massachusetts and Connecticut, USA. Yellow Lampmussel occur in shallow waters and predominantly silt and sandy substrate in medium and large rivers; however, the species’ habitat use within the Connecticut River has not been described. We assessed how river depth and bed texture affect the presence of Yellow Lampmussel in the southern portion of the Connecticut River. We used side scan sonar and GIS tools to characterize and map physical habitat for 160 km of the river. Mussel presence data was provided by state agencies. Species distribution was modeled using a GLM in R and probability of presence was predicted throughout the study area. The models suggest that both depth and bed texture are important predictors of Yellow Lampmussel presence, with cobble and shallow depths being associated with higher probability of occurrence, as opposed to other bed textures and deeper depths. Interestingly, silt and sand were associated with lower probability of occurrence, suggesting that habitat use may differ among waterbodies, although sampling bias in the mussel data may affect results. Future mussel surveys will be conducted to validate the model predictions, with a stratified-random site selection to sample a wider variety of habitat characteristics. The species distribution and habitat maps produced in this research will be valuable for guiding future monitoring done on the Connecticut River and possible management interventions such as habitat restoration or mussel translocation or reintroduction.

Estela Garcia (Primary Presenter/Author), North Carolina State University , jegarci3@ncsu.edu ;

Stefanie Farrington (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Massachusetts, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service , sjfarrington@umass.edu;

David Perkins (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), USFWS , david_perkins@fws.gov;

Allison Roy (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), U.S. Geological Survey, Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Massachusetts Amherst , aroy@eco.umass.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Testing for negative relationships between stream flow and freshwater mussel growth rates across streams Freshwater mussels (Bivalvia: Unionida) are highly imperiled, yet there is a lack of fundamental data on mussels’ life history traits such as growth and longevity. Mussel growth rates and longevity vary widely across species and populations and with local environmental conditions like temperature and stream flow. Individual mussels deposit growth rests (annuli) that mark a period of slow growth in the winter. By identifying the annuli deposited, we aimed to understand the environmental conditions conducive to mussel growth. We hypothesized that mussel growth rates are negatively correlated with high flow events due to the increased risk of dislodgement from the substrate, which may disrupt growth. We also hypothesized that the strength of this correlation differs among streams. To test this, we identified annuli from fifty-nine individuals of five species collected from five streams in the Mobile and Tennessee River basins. We cut cross-sections from one valve of each shell and used image stacking to create a high-resolution photo of each shell. We used radial distance measurements for each annulus to calculate length-at-age values and derive a von Bertalanffy growth model for individuals. Growth rates (k) range from 0.101–0.435 across species, including substantial intraspecific variation among different-sized streams. Further, we compared these growth rates to ten-day high and low flows and mean discharge across seasons. An improved understanding of the relationships between stream flow and mussel growth may help inform environmental flow management and mussel conservation programs.

Ian Brunetz (Primary Presenter/Author), University of Alabama , iabrunetz@crimson.ua.edu;

Jonathan Lopez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , jwlopez@ua.edu;

Garrett Hopper (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Louisiana State University , ghopper@agcenter.lsu.edu;

Irene Sanchez Gonzalez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Georgia , isanchezgonzalez@crimson.ua.edu;

Carla L. Atkinson (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The University of Alabama , carla.l.atkinson@ua.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

FRESHWATER MUSSEL SURVEY OF SHALLOW-WATER HABITATS WITHIN LAKE LACAWAC, USA Freshwater mussels play a key role in maintaining lake, river, and stream ecosystems and are useful indicators in evaluating water quality in aquatic ecosystems throughout the United States. As filter feeders, mussels reduce seston in many lentic and lotic waterbodies, thereby reducing nutrient levels and improving overall water quality. Mussels also stabilize benthic substrates and increase habitat diversity for fishes, amphibians, and other macroinvertebrates. Researchers from the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University have been involved in freshwater mussel surveys throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and the Poconos for many years. In August 2020, a cursory freshwater mussel survey was conducted along two 100m transects in the littoral zone of Lake Lacawac (Wayne County, PA). Each transect was sampled by hand within randomly selected 2m x 2m quadrats. Depth, dominant substrate type, and vegetative cover data were also recorded. Elliptio complanata comprised ~98% of the total number sampled. Densities ranged from 0-25 mussels/m2, with limited species and age class diversity. Mussel filtration and biodeposits may play a more substantial role than previously thought in understanding the long-term Lake Lacawac ecology and variability seen in lake water clarity and seston composition. The results of the 2020 survey will aid in further evaluating Lake Lacawac water quality data and ecosystem function. Additional studies will be conducted in 2024 to determine littoral food web structure using stable isotope biogeochemistry in the lake and around selected mussel beds.

Malcolm Newman (Primary Presenter/Author), The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Patrick Center for Environmental Research , men45@drexel.edu;

Dane Ward (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Drexel University Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science Department , dcw33@drexel.edu;

David Velinsky (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Drexel University Biodiversity, Earth, and Environmental Science Department , djv23@drexel.edu;

Kathryn Longwill (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Patrick Center for Environmental Research , kalongwill@gmail.com;

Roger Thomas (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Patrick Center for Environmental Research , rlt47@drexel.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Juvenile fatmucket (Lampsilis siliquoidea) survival at restored sites in the Niagara River The Niagara River (New York and Ontario) historically provided habitat for at least 30 species of freshwater mussel (family Unionidae), but habitat loss, water quality and substrate degradation, and the introduction of dreissenid mussels have resulted in major declines. Recent surveys have located only 13 of these species. Aquatic habitat restoration has occurred at sites in the Niagara River to reinvigorate ecological services, possibly making these sites more suitable for mussel populations. To assess current water and substrate quality in the Upper Niagara River, we have propagated fatmuckets (Lampsilis siliquoidea), a native freshwater mussel, for placement at the restored sites in July 2024. For one season, we will regularly record the shell length and mortality of the juvenile fatmuckets. We will use this data to assess the viability of these restored sites to support future mussel re-introduction and to identify locations where additional habitat restoration may be necessary. Additionally, we will perform habitat and water quality assessments to infer which environmental attributes are most critical to juvenile mussel survival. This habitat assessment will include in situ water quality measurements and substrate characterization as well as more in-depth water chemistry analysis performed in lab. The success of the lab propagated juveniles coupled with an in-depth habitat assessment will allow us to better understand the mussel dynamics of the Niagara River and inform future propagation and conservation efforts.

Max Striedl (Primary Presenter/Author), University at Buffalo , maxstrie@buffalo.edu;

Jonah Fronk (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University at Buffalo , jonahfro@buffalo.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

Longitudinal Patterns in Hyporheic Community Structure of a Large, Low-gradient Desert River A large body of ecological research on the hyporheic zone has sought to explain patterns in community structure. Much of that work has been conducted at small scales (e.g., within riffles), emphasizing fine-scale heterogeneity and the influence of groundwater-surface water exchange. A smaller number of larger-scale investigations have described physiographic effects (e.g., elevational gradients and changes in underlying geology sensu the hyporheic corridor concept) in temperate and montane systems. Relatively little is known about large-scale patterns in arid land rivers where unique historical and temporary hydrologic regimes may exert strong influences on the distribution of groundwater-obligate species (stygobionts) with limited dispersal abilities. We investigated changes in community structure at 28 mainstem and spring-run sites along a 109 km stretch of the Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande river in Texas. At each site, hyporheic invertebrates were collected with a Bou-Rouch pump and physicochemistry, dissolved ions, and isotopes of liquid water were analyzed to characterize water chemistry. Karst springs throughout the Lower Canyons contribute to flow, creating a gradient of increasing groundwater influence that buffers against drought effects. The area represents one of the largest karst regions of Texas not previously investigated for stygobionts. Stygobionts were present throughout the study area, including a number of undescribed taxa. Longitudinal changes in species richness and community composition were investigated using ordination and linear regression. The relative importance of local versus longitudinal effects on community composition were investigated using RDA and variance partitioning.

Zoey Chanin (Primary Presenter/Author), Texas State University , zoeychanin@gmail.com;

Benjamin Hutchins (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Edwards Aquifer Research and Data Center, Texas State University, San Marcos, Tx. , bh1333@txastate.edu;

Kathryn Perez (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), University of Texas Rio Grande Valley , kathryn.perez@utrgv.edu;

Pete Diaz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), US Fish and Wildlife Service , pete_diaz@fws.gov;

Benjamin Schwartz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Tx. , bs37@txstate.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

EVALUATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FINE SEDIMENTS AND HYPORHEIC INSECT BIOMASS IN GRAVEL-BEDDED STREAMS The hyporheic zone provides habitat for diverse invertebrates, including insects. Insects eventually emerge as adults and become important food sources for fish and other predators. Streams in the Ozark Highlands ecoregion (USA) have coarse gravel beds but can have varying amounts of fine sediment, often associated with land use. We sampled six comparably sized Ozark streams on two dates, one in April (high flow season) and one in July (low flow) to assess whether the percentage of fine sediments (%fines) in the hyporheic zone was associated with standing biomass of insects. To quantify %fines, we collected six replicate cores to ~40 cm depth in each streambed and passed the dried sediments through sieves to obtain the percent dry mass of particles <0.5mm. To collect invertebrates, we pumped 8 liters of hyporheic water from 40-50 cm below the bed at six replicate locations per stream. We identified insects to family level and estimated biomass by using published length-mass relationships. Across the six streams, %fines ranged from 1.4%-9.5%. At the time of writing, processing of July samples is still ongoing, but April results show that hyporheic insect biomass varied by at least an order of magnitude among the six streams, and there was a significant negative relationship between %fines and insect biomass. Increased fine sediments in gravel beds likely reduce interstitial space for larger-bodied insects and restrict insects with certain movement types such as crawling or swimming. Our results have management implications, particularly associated with land use practices in riparian zones.

Mackenzie Childers (Primary Presenter/Author), Missouri State University , mc997s@MissouriState.edu;

Jackson Winslow (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri State University , jww79s@missouristate.edu;

Alexis Reifsteck (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri State University , reifsteckalexis@gmail.com;

Debra Finn (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Missouri State University , dfinn@missouristate.edu;

6/5/2024  |   15:00 - 17:00   |   Liberty Ballroom D

HYPORHEIC INVERTEBRATE COMMUNITY COMPOSITION AS A FUNCTION OF FLOW REGIME IN THE COLORADO RIVER BASIN, TX Globally, climate change and groundwater extraction are causing increasing intermittency in many rivers. This has ecological implications for all riverine habitats, including the hyporheic zone; an ecotone between surface water and groundwater beneath river channels. We examined hyporheic invertebrate community composition and abundance as a function of flow regime at 34 sites along four rivers in the Colorado River Basin in Central Texas. Flow regime was classified at each site using ten calculated hydrological indices (IHA software, The Nature Conservancy, 2009). At sites lacking long-term gage data, we created models to predict hydrologic indices based on shared environmental characteristics for basins of both gaged and non-gaged sites. Cluster analysis revealed distinct ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ site types, with ‘dry’ sites experiencing systematic declines in flow. When grouped into four clusters, two “wet” clusters and two “dry” clusters were generated. Differences in community assemblage between the drier clusters suggested that flow magnitude had an influential role in determining community composition. “Dry” sites had significantly lower invertebrate abundance than “wet” sites. Of the ten indices, mean annual flow, and hydraulic conductivity, explain >50% of variation in abundance. An RDA revealed that relative proportions of Copepoda, Insecta, and Ostracoda between sites were influenced by differences in hydrological index values. The strong connection between flow regime and hyporheic community composition suggests that decreasing flows result in lower invertebrate abundance and shifts in community composition. Understanding how hyporheic communities respond to hydrologic changes is an important step towards predicting their responses to future climate scenarios.

Eryl Austin-Bingamon (Primary Presenter/Author), Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Tx. , eea37@txstat.edu;

Benjamin Schwartz (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, Tx. , bs37@txstate.edu;

Benjamin Hutchins (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Edwards Aquifer Research and Data Center, Texas State University, San Marcos, Tx. , bh1333@txastate.edu;

Safra Altman (Co-Presenter/Co-Author), Army Corp of Engineers Environmental Research and Development Lab , safra.altman@erdc.dren.mil;