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Potential effects of fish predation on Wetland invertebrates: A comparison of wetlands with and without fathead minnows

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Abstract

We evaluated potential effects of fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) on wetland invertebrates by comparing activity trap catches from semipermanent wetlands with and without fathead minnows during 1991 and 1992. Indices of aquatic invertebrate abundance, biomass, and taxon richness were all lower in wetlands containing fathead minnows. Reductions in abundance and biomass of insects and crustaceans in wetlands with fathead minnows were pronounced during both years. Our results indicate that at high densities, fathead minnows may severely depress abundance, biomass, and taxon richness of aquatic invertebrates in semipermanent prairie wetlands, thereby reducing the suitability of these habitats as seasonal foraging areas for waterfowl.

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  1. Wetland Wildlife Populations and Research Group, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 56601, Bemidji, MN

    Mark A. Hanson

  2. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 55155, St. Paul, MN

    Michael R. Riggs

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  1. Mark A. Hanson
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  2. Michael R. Riggs
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Hanson, M.A., Riggs, M.R. Potential effects of fish predation on Wetland invertebrates: A comparison of wetlands with and without fathead minnows. Wetlands 15, 167–175 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03160670

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