A Survey for Live Mussels in the Black and Spring Rivers, Arkansas, 1985.
Abstract
This report provides information for the Permits Branch, US Army Engineer District, Little Rock, a survey for live mussels was conducted on portions of the Black and Spring Rivers ion Lawrence and Randolph Counties, Ark., on 9 to 12 September 1985. The primary purpose of this survey was to locate specimens of the endangered species Lampsilis orbiculata or other endangered mussels. Two specimens of L. orbiculata were found --one at Black River mile 75.05 (right bank) and the other at mile 80.7 (left bank). On the Black River, between miles 68 and 92, 44 collections were made at 22 locations; live mussels were found in 29 of the 44 collections. At seven locations on the river, more than 50 individuals and five species were collected. A total of 29 species of mussels were identified. The fauna was dominated by six species including Amblema plicata (26.13), Quadrula pustulosa (25.59 percent), Fusconaia flava (11.69 percent), and F. ebena (9.21 percent). Uncommon species included Megalonaias gigantea, Proptera Laevissima, and Strophitus subvexus. The Black River in the study are can be characterized as deep, with moderate current and substrate composed of sand mixed with mud, and various amounts of organic matter. Three gravel bars were identified in the area surveyed; a bar located at mile 73.2 supported a commmunity with high density and species richness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA171515
Entities
People
- Andrew C. Miller
- Paul D. Hartfield