Petition to List Lynn Canal Pacific Herring under the Endangered ...

larval developmental success are, for example, reduced at both low and high
salinity levels in Pacific herring, C. pallasi, and this species’ optimal salinity
range was found to be higher than that of Baltic herring (Griffin et al. 1998).
(Bekkevold et al. 2005). Griffin et al. (1998) determined that individual populations of
Pacific Herring have differing tolerances salinity levels with regard to fertilization and
reproduction.
Although we do not believe that salinity is the only factor governing successful
reproduction of Pacific herring, it does appear to be an important component of
both fertilization and embryonic development. Furthermore, comparisons of
fertilization in the San Francisco Bay population with that of a Baltic population
of C. h. membras and with published reports of other Pacific herring populations
suggest that salinity tolerance ranges may differ between populations. The effects
of salinity pressure on development may be more subtle than those on
fertilization, yet may have more impact on recruitment in the environment.
Altered salinity not only reduces the number of normal, competent larvae that
hatch, it also delays the hatching of those embryos. The costs of such delays,
separations from larval schools, depleted energy reserves, and extended time in
chorion (where embryos are subject to both predation and exposure) influence
chance for survival.
(Griffin et al. 1998).
F. The “Best Available Science” concerning the DPS
inquiry
While discussing what should make up “Designatable Units” of a species for
conservation purposes, Green et al. (2005) emphasized that the geographical location is
of paramount importance. While genetics are a useful tool, Green et al. (2005) stressed
that an overemphasis on genetic distinctions should be avoided.
[O]ccupation of differing biogeographic regions by a species reflects the probable
existence of historical or genetic distinctions and adaptations in each of those
regions even though the range may appear to be continuous.
(Green et al. 2005)(emphasis added). Green et al. (2005) further argues that:
Designatable units based on the different biogeographic zones the species
occupies are the most defensible and prudent means to adequately describe its
overall conservation status (Schock 2001).
Evolutionary patterns therefore are not the focus, and the methodology does not
rely on a priori systematics. The use of [Designatable Units] might be criticized
for recognizing “nonevolutionary” units or for not paying strict attention to the
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