The status of Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) in Idaho

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Despite their former widespread distribution and abundance in the Columbia River basin and Pacific Northwest, Pacific lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus were relatively unnoticed until European settlement of the region. Pacific lamprey historically played a critical role in ecosystem energy and nutrient flow in the basins they occupied. European settlement and subsequent development of the Pacific Northwest have contributed significantly to changes in the riverine habitats occupied by Pacific lamprey. Similar to other anadromous species, these changes have altered the habitats that Pacific lamprey require to successfully complete their life cycle. In the past decade, fisheries professionals have recognized the ecological importance of Pacific lamprey in the ecosystems they inhabit. Additionally, there has been recognition of the precipitous decline in Columbia and Snake River populations. This document summarizes the current available knowledge concerning the status of the species in the state of Idaho. The major river drainages in Idaho that remain accessible to Pacific lamprey are discussed regarding their geology, hydrology, and anthropogenic changes. Based on research, historical dam counts, and best professional judgment, spawning escapement goals are defined by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to provide reasonable assurance that the population(s) in Idaho will persist. A number of management actions thought necessary to enhance persistence of the species are also presented.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology

SWAP (2/19/2016) citation:
[IDFG] Idaho Department of Fish and Game. 2011. The status of Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) in Idaho. Boise (ID): Idaho Department of fish and Game. 59 p. [accessed 2016 Jan 28]. http://idahodocs.cdmhost.com/utils/getdownloaditem/collection/p16293coll...