Using Multimethod Occupancy Estimation Models to Quantify Gear Differences in Detection Probabilities: Is Backpack Electrofishing Missing Occurrences for a Species of Concern?

摘要: AbstractThe Bridle Shiner Notropis bifrenatus is a small, rare minnow species native to northeastern streams and lakes. It declining over most of its range currently listed as concern in Connecticut. Surveys conducted with seine nets the 1960s found Shiners at 56 locations statewide. In contrast, surveys 1990s using electrofishing detected 8 locations. Different sampling techniques made it difficult assess what portion observed decline might be artifact, confounding efforts actual conservation status. We sampled 18 habitat patches three Connecticut watersheds 2012 determine if seining for yielded higher detection probability than backpack electrofishing. A multimethod occupancy estimation modeling approach, program PRESENCE, quantified correctly detecting by gear covaried features. Backpack ...