Effects of reservoir management on abundance, condition, parasitism and reproductive traits of downstream mussels

摘要: The large-scale impoundment of rivers has led to global declines in freshwater mussel populations. It is important understand the mechanisms underlying these initiate an effective recovery strategy. We examined population traits three Quadrula species (Quadrula pustulosa, Q. cylindrica and quadrula) at locations that were exposed two different reservoir management regimes: releases mimicked natural flow patterns higher colder summer months than system. found lower density, hermaphroditism parasitism rates, reduced body condition downstream dam with unnatural regimes. Sex ratios varied on a site basis. more females males averaged across all sampling sites while pustulosa was male biased 1. observed approximately equal sex quadrula. Population disturbances naturally-regulated not as severe. Our data indicate operation can have effects variety life history characteristics may ultimately reduce viability. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.