AUTHORS: Janice L. Albers, Jessica C. Stanton, Andrea K. Fritts, U.S. Geological Survey Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center; Nicholas Swyers, Matthew D. Sholtis, U.S. Geological Survey Western Fisheries Research Center, Columbia River Research Laboratory; Jon Vallazza, Dan Gibson-Reinemer, U.S. Geological Survey Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center; Theodore R. Castro-Santos, U.S. Geological Survey Eastern Ecological Science Center; Christa M. Woodley, U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center; Marybeth K. Brey, U.S. Geological Survey Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center
ABSTRACT: Invasive bigheaded carps, with their unique hearing specialization, exhibit behavioral responses to underwater acoustic signals. This intriguing behavior has prompted further research into whether these signals could be used to deter invasive carps from moving into sensitive areas or further upstream. Preventing or slowing movements of invasive carps around movement bottlenecks, such as navigation locks and dams, can minimize propagule pressure in upstream locations and provide additional time and opportunity for removal or other management actions while also minimizing impact on native species. Testing of underwater acoustic signals at large, management-relevant scales is a necessary step in determining the feasibility of this tool for long-term management of invasive carps. We evaluated an underwater acoustic deterrent system (uADS) installed in the downstream approach of the navigation lock at Lock and Dam 19 on the Mississippi River near Keokuk, Iowa. We analyzed the movement behaviors of invasive carp (bighead, silver, and grass carp) and various native species, implanted with acoustic transmitters, in relation to the uADS operation status and environmental covariates. Using multiple analytical approaches, we assessed the impact of the uADS on upstream lock passage; the rate that fish enter and exit various zones in the lock approach; and movement behavior around the deterrent. Results from this study will inform managers about the effectiveness of a uADS at preventing upstream lock passage by invasives relative to native fish species, movement behavior of fish as they interact with the deterrent and lock structure, and logistics and maintenance of uADS installations.
