Publication Abstract

Seasonal abundance and microhabitat use of bullhead Cottus gobio and accompanying fish species in the River Avon (Hampshire), and implications for conservation

Seasonal abundance and microhabitat use of bullhead Cottus gobio and accompanying fish species in the River Avon (Hampshire), and implications for conservation

M.G. Carter, G.H. Copp and V. Szomolai

Five side-channels and small tributaries of the River Avon (Hampshire, England) were examined between Spring 1999 and Spring 2000 using a point abundance sampling by electrofishing to determine the status of fishes and lampreys listed in Annex II of the EC Habitats and Species Directive (EC HSD) prior to habitat management works to enhance Spring feeding habitat of wading birds. Seasonal patterns of abundance and microhabitat use of bullhead Cottus gobio and accompanying fish species were examined. Parr of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar were sufficiently abundant for microhabitat analysis at one site only. And only two specimens of brook lamprey Lamptra fluiatilis were observed, one at each of two sites. Bullhead was amongst, if not the most, abundant fish species at all five sites, 0+ bullhead predominating. Bullhead microhabitat preferences were generally similar at all five sites, but seasonal variations were observed, as was the case for the accompanying fish species, which included dace Leuciscus leuciscus, chub L. cephalus, stone loach Barbatula barbatula, roach Rutilus rutilus and threespine stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus. Bullhead conservation status is discussed, in particular its exemption, such as already granted for Finnish bullhead populations, from Annex II of the EC HSD.

Reference:

M.G. Carter, G.H. Copp and V. Szomolai (2004) Seasonal abundance and microhabitat use of bullhead Cottus gobio and accompanying fish species in the River Avon (Hampshire), and implications for conservation. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 14: 395-412

M.G. Carter, G.H. Copp* and V. Szomolai

Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 14: 395-412