Threatened Ozark Cavefish Population Declines
Posted: Feb 24, 2006 6:36 pm
Latest Cavefish Count
The latest count of Ozark cavefish in Cave Springs shows a decline to 123 from the 2004 count that showed 150 of the threatened fish. Researchers say there were plenty of young and that the lesser number is not cause for concern.
Four researchers conducted the count on Feb. 7 at the northwest Arkansas cave. The fish are counted every two years to minimize disruption to the very limited habitat.
Six years ago, the count revealed 160 fish. Researchers say the population fluctuations are to be expected, but a count of 60 or fewer of the fish would be a trouble sign.
Researchers found a greater than normal amount of red clay or silt inside the cave but did not link the silt to the lower count.
http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=24186
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The latest count of Ozark cavefish in Cave Springs shows a decline to 123 from the 2004 count that showed 150 of the threatened fish. Researchers say there were plenty of young and that the lesser number is not cause for concern.
Four researchers conducted the count on Feb. 7 at the northwest Arkansas cave. The fish are counted every two years to minimize disruption to the very limited habitat.
Six years ago, the count revealed 160 fish. Researchers say the population fluctuations are to be expected, but a count of 60 or fewer of the fish would be a trouble sign.
Researchers found a greater than normal amount of red clay or silt inside the cave but did not link the silt to the lower count.
http://www.todaysthv.com/news/news.aspx?storyid=24186
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