Title : Ecosystem controls on an anchialine pool shrimp species, Halocaridina rubra, presence and behaviors in North Kona, Hawaii
Abstract:
Loko wai??pae (anchialine pool) habitats are tidally influenced, land-locked aquatic habitats with subterranean connections to the sea that are home to unique assemblages of organisms, such as the endemic shrimp, ??pae?ula (Halocaridina rubra). ??pae?ula abundance is intimately linked to perpetuation of Native Hawaiian fishing practices along the North Kona coast as these shrimps are highly valued as superior palu (chum/bait) to catch ??pelu (mackerel sp.). However, the stability of ??pae?ula populations and their anchialine environments is threatened by introduced, non-native and invasive species, eutrophication due to groundwater contamination and runoff from anthropogenic sources, and seawater inundation due to sea level rise. Decrease in ??pae?ula populations is of critical concern to lineal descendants, customary practitioners and loko wai??pae caretakers. In this study, we are working in partnership with community groups and organizations to understand how ecosystem controls, such as water quality and predators, impact the presence and behaviors of ??pae?ula. We sampled and surveyed a total of 30 loko wai??pae habitats and ??pae?ula populations, quarterly for one year, across North Kona, Hawai?i. Here we aim to characterize ??pae?ula behaviors in response to predators and water quality shifts. Preliminary results show that ??pae?ula presence is less abundant during the day in ponds with predators, whereas, ponds without predators are less abundant at night. Our preliminary data also indicates a salinity range preference for ??pae?ula presence. Other behaviors, and water quality and climate change effects are still being analyzed. With that said, extensive behavioral studies on wild populations of ??pae?ula are lacking. Therefore, our study helps to illuminate behaviors and conditions that will aid in the protection of ??pae?ula populations and assists in identifying where conservation efforts will be best utilized for the preservation of their unique habitats.
