Chapter 4 Habitats
priority species. Monitoring plans should be coordinated with other existing monitoring programs where feasible. Monitoring of aquatic taxa is critical to assessing species and ecosystem health and gauging the resilience of organisms to a changing climate. These monitoring efforts will inform future decisions on how to manage aquatic species. 4.2.9.6.3 Research Research topics that facilitate appropriate conservation actions include habitat use and preferences, reproductive behavior, fecundity, population dynamics and genetics, feeding, competition, and food web dynamics. Research must also be conducted to determine vulnerability of priority species to specific threats, and studies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration. Aquatic species propagation is an area of current and ongoing research. Developing techniques for propagation of aquatic species is critical for preserving those species and their genetic stock, particularly those that are rare, at high risk of extinction or extirpation, and difficult to propagate in a laboratory setting. Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats • Assess habitats for augmentation and relocation potential for freshwater fish SGCN and other priority species. Carolina Madtom • Study habitat use and life history characteristics of aquatic snail SGCN and other priority species.
• Investigate the effects of large-scale snagging (removal of downed trees) within the rivers after hurricanes.
4.2.9.6.4 Management Practices Management practices that reduce impacts and work synergistically 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. 4.2.9.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships Conservation programs, incentives, and partnerships should be used to the fullest extent to preserve high-quality resources and protect important natural communities. Protective measures that use existing regulatory frameworks to protect habitats and species should be incorporated where applicable.
References are located at the end of this document.
4 - 73
2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator