Use of PIT tags to assess individual heterogeneity of laboratory‐reared juveniles of the endangered Cumberlandian combshell (Epioblasma brevidens) in a mark–recapture study

Abstract

The federally endangered Cumberlandian combshell (Epioblasma brevidens) was propagated and reared to taggable size (5–10 mm), and released to the Powell River, Tennessee, to augment a relict population. Methodology using passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags on these mussels greatly facilitated the detection process. The overall mean detection probability and survival rate of released individuals reached 97.8 to 98.4% and 99.7 to 99.9% (per month), respectively, during nine successive recapture occasions in the 2-year study period, regardless of seasonality. Nonhierarchical models and hierarchical models incorporating individual and seasonal variations through a Bayesian approach were compared and resulted in similar performance of prediction for detection probability and survival rate of mussels. This is the first study to apply the mark–recapture method to laboratory-reared mussels using PIT tags and stochastic models. Quantitative analyses for individual heterogeneity allowed examination of demographic variance and effects of heterogeneity on population dynamics, although the individual and seasonal variations were small in this study. Our results provide useful information in implementing conservation strategies of this faunal group and a framework for other species or similar studies.

Assessment of a Short-Distance Freshwater Mussel Relocation as Viable Tool During Bridge Construction Projects

“…However, the use of PIT tags requires more handling time than other methods, such as plastic tags or glitter glue, because most epoxies need 12 h to cure completely. Future projects affixing PIT tag with epoxy or cement should consider faster-drying brands (e.g., Fuji Glass Ionomer Luting Cement recommended by Hua et al 2015) to reduce holding time. We do not feel the mass of the epoxied PIT tag caused stress given the sizes of mussels (mean size was 115 mm for A. ligamentina and 103 mm for L. cardium) and the minimal amount of epoxy used for the 12.5 mm tags.…”

Periodic growth and growth cessations in the federally endangered freshwater mussel Cumberlandian combshell using a hierarchical Bayesian approach

“…Rearing larger-sized (>20 mm) juvenile mussels for release is an important first step to restore imperiled populations. Mark-recapture techniques using PIT tags helps to ensure the success of evaluating mussel restoration efforts (Hua et al 2015). Hence our study, covering the critical stages of juvenile propagation, culture, and release to monitoring provided a demonstration of conservation and restoration of an endangered mussel species.…”

Quantitative Monitoring of Freshwater Mussel Populations from 1979–2004 in the Clinch and Powell Rivers of Tennessee and Virginia, with Miscellaneous Notes on the Fauna

“…Various reintroduction methodologies have been attempted; translocation of adult mussels from large populations is the most cost-effective method for reestablishing historical populations, though density of available source populations is a limiting factor for most species (Carey et al 2015). Researchers have refined culture methods for juveniles, allowing greater sizes for release and improved survival rates (Hua et al 2015).…”