4.5 River Basins
feeding, competition, and food web dynamics. Increased understanding of life histories and status helps determine the vulnerability of priority species to further imperilment, in addition to identifying possibilities for improved management and conservation. All stud- ies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration. Formal descriptions for known or putative undescribed species and investigations aimed at resolving taxo- nomic status are needed.
• Resolve the taxonomy of mussels in the genus Villosa and species descriptions for Smoky Dace and Sicklefn Redhorse.
• Study the early life history, propagation and culture, movement, and habitat use of Sicklefn Redhorse. • Continue research into potential causes for the decline of Appalachian Elktoe and Slippershell in the Little Tennessee River. • Research to improve habitat conditions in regulated reaches of the Cheoah, Nantahala, and Tuckasegee rivers.
• Investigate aquatic community response to restoration projects in priority areas.
• Identify impacts of nonnative species on priority species and habitats (e.g., Asian Clam, Kentucky River Crayfsh, Hydrilla). In addition to the SGCN species found in the basin (see Table 4.63), a list of knowledge-gap priority species is provided in Table 4.64. Management Practices. Management practices that reduce impacts and work synergis- tically with other conservation actions are needed to enhance the resilience of natural resources. Particular needs include preserving biodiversity, protecting native populations and their habitats, and improving degraded habitats. In addition, education about, and regulation and prevention of the introduction and spread of exotic or invasive species are vital. Specifc issues in this basin include secondary and cumulative impacts upon water quality, riparian vegetation and stream bank restoration and conservation, mitigation of hydropower development impacts, and species restoration opportunities.
• Support conservation and restoration of streams and riparian zones in priority areas.
• Incorporate management goals for aquatic community conservation and enhancement planning and new land acquisitions for Needmore Game Lands.
• Continue reintroduction of extirpated priority and other species in the Cheoah River and other restored or improved habitats as opportunity allows.
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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