Modoc sucker - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

12. Evaluate alternative to chemical treatment of Rush Creek. Completed (see above)
13. Control the introduction and distribution of exotic fishes within drainages
currently occupied by, or targeted for the reintroduction of Modoc suckers.
14. Perform genetic studies to determine whether hybridization is occurring
between Modoc and Sacramento suckers, and if so, the degree of introgression
and its threat to Modoc suckers.
15. Evaluate the systematic status and relationships of the various sucker
populations in the Pit drainage.
E) Expand Range
1. Survey Willow Creek watershed for suitability as habitat and location of
barrier sites.
Ongoing, current Turner Creek project (Reid 2006), continuing nonnative
fish evaluation & removal, Loveness Pond
screen (USFS), CDFG, and ODFW management
Completed initial
phases, ongoing
studies
Completed initial
phases, ongoing
Survey completed
(Reid 2008b)
Nuclear AFLP study, U.C. Davis (Topinka 2006);
MtDNA study, Univ. Arizona (Dowling 2005);
Microsatellites, USFWS Abernathy (in progress).
(Kettratad 2001; Topinka 2006; Dowling 2005; Reid
in progress, funded)
translocation is not currently being considered for
recovery efforts
2. Evaluate Howard's Gulch as possible introduction site. - on hold at this time translocation is not being considered for
recovery efforts
F) Monitor Populations
1. Monitor population trends in known populations.
a) Turner drainage (Coffee Mill, Hulbert, Turner, Washington).
b) Ash drainage (Johnson, Dutch Flat and Rush Creeks).
2. Monitor habitat conditions and population levels to evaluate effectiveness of
recovery and habitat restoration. Revise methods as appropriate.
3. Secure habitat and establish viable Modoc sucker populations:
a) throughout the Turner and Rush Creek drainages.
b) in at least two additional drainages within historic range
(examples were Ash or Willow creeks).
3
Ongoing, current No specific population surveys since listing,
monitoring of distribution indicates stable with some
expansion of known populations into all suitable
habitat. Survey protocol development planned and
funded for 2008.
Ongoing, current Proper Functioning Condition surveys (CDFG
2001), Conservation and 5-year status reviews
a) completed
b) completed
a) Modoc suckers currently occupy all suitable
habitat within the Rush and Turner drainages.
Habitat secure, currently addressing non-native
species.
b) additional populations include Dutch Flat (Ash
Creek drainage) and Thomas Creek (Goose sub-