Chapter 4 Habitats
Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats • Crayfishes – monitor priority species.
4.5.4.5.3 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. 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 studies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration. Formal descriptions for known or putative undescribed species and investigations aimed at resolving taxonomic status are needed.
Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats
• Resolve taxonomic problems and species descriptions (if required) for mussels in the genus Elliptio .
• Resolve taxonomic issues and species descriptions (if required) for crayfish in the genus Cambarus .
• Investigate impacts from habitat fragmentation and invasive species in the basin.
• Investigate aquatic community response to stream restoration projects in priority areas.
• Support research to improve habitat conditions in regulated rivers.
4.5.4.5.4 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. In addition, education about, and regulation and prevention of, the introduction and spread of exotic or invasive species are vital. Specific issues in this basin include high rates of erosion and sedimentation, secondary and cumulative impacts upon water quality, riparian vegetation restoration and conservation, water supply watershed protection, and protection of headwaters.
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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