Unique Presentation Identifier:

P57

Program Type

Honors

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Kyler Hecke

Document Type

Poster

Location

Face-to-face

Start Date

29-4-2025 3:00 PM

Abstract

The Ozark Longear Sunfish (Lepomis sp. Ozark) is a species endemic to the Ozark Highlands and Boston Mountains, primarily found in headwater streams that dry up in the summer. Their spawning period occurs from May to August, and because of the impact dry seasons have on water level in headwater streams, there's a possibility their population and health may be impacted. As an endemic species, they play a key role in their ecosystem, and their unique position makes them significant for both ecological and recreational reasons. Because of the wide variety of Sunfish species the state offers, new recreational challenges may arise where anglers are interested in catching this fish and its other subspecies in a certain amount of time. To better understand the population, health, and abundance of the Ozark Longear Sunfish, a study will be conducted in the Illinois Bayou watershed near Russellville, Arkansas. The study will use hook and line sampling methods, including both fly rod and conventional setups. Data collected will focus on fish length, weight, and health, with a visual check for abnormalities like lesions or parasites. The aim is to gather vital information for managing the species and improving their habitat. The findings will assist in making informed decisions on how to protect and manage the Ozark Longear Sunfish for both biological conservation and recreational fishing interests.

Download

Share

COinS
 
Apr 29th, 3:00 PM

Gathering a Population Assessment of Endemic Ozark Longear Sunfish (Lepomis sp. Ozark) in the Illinois Bayou Watershed

Face-to-face

The Ozark Longear Sunfish (Lepomis sp. Ozark) is a species endemic to the Ozark Highlands and Boston Mountains, primarily found in headwater streams that dry up in the summer. Their spawning period occurs from May to August, and because of the impact dry seasons have on water level in headwater streams, there's a possibility their population and health may be impacted. As an endemic species, they play a key role in their ecosystem, and their unique position makes them significant for both ecological and recreational reasons. Because of the wide variety of Sunfish species the state offers, new recreational challenges may arise where anglers are interested in catching this fish and its other subspecies in a certain amount of time. To better understand the population, health, and abundance of the Ozark Longear Sunfish, a study will be conducted in the Illinois Bayou watershed near Russellville, Arkansas. The study will use hook and line sampling methods, including both fly rod and conventional setups. Data collected will focus on fish length, weight, and health, with a visual check for abnormalities like lesions or parasites. The aim is to gather vital information for managing the species and improving their habitat. The findings will assist in making informed decisions on how to protect and manage the Ozark Longear Sunfish for both biological conservation and recreational fishing interests.