Range expansion of the non-native Rainbow Darter in the New and Potomac River drainages, West Virginia.

Abstract

Invasive species are currently a concern for fish conservation efforts in the eastern United States. As an example, consider the New and Potomac River drainages of West Virginia, where non-native fishes outnumber natives, and many species are considered as invasive, such as the Rainbow Darter. We examined the range expansions of the Rainbow darter populations in both river systems with an emphasis on comparison of invasion curve models, including a spatial assessment at sub-watershed scales. Similarities between the New and Potomac River drainages will be discussed, including a comparison between the Greenbrier and South Branch Potomac drainages, with emphasis on lag times, and exponential and asymptotic population growth. Documentation of changes in distribution ranges of the Rainbow Darter relative to invasive species concerns may inform management decisions for the New and Potomac River drainages.