FISHES
FISHES
Cape Fear Shiner Broodstock Collection
by Emilia Omerberg, Central Region Aquatic Wildlife Diversity Biologist
T he Cape Fear Shiner is federally listed as Endangered. This minnow species is endemic to the upper portion of the Cape Fear River basin, living in complex run/riffle/pool habitats found across the NC piedmont region. In April of 2024, staff collected 85 Cape Fear Shiners from the Deep River, which were then transported to the US Fish & Wildlife Service Edenton National Fish Hatch- ery. These animals will spawn in captivity in order to maximize the survival of their eggs and offspring. The resulting juveniles will then be stocked back into portions of the species’ range where population levels are lower, with the goal of augmenting numbers and increasing chances of future reproductive success in the wild. This is the third year of this effort.
CHRIS SHEATS
Many partners came together to help collect Cape Fear Shiner broodstock. Pictured here in the Deep River are staff from US Fish & Wildlife Service, NC Dept. of Transportation, Dewberry Inc, and TranSystems.
53 2024 Wildlife Diversity Program Annual Report
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