Major Threats to Our Species in the Kingston Region

The major threat that we believe is more detrimental to the population size for each of our top 5 species in the Kingston Region is outlined below.

American Eel

Major Threat: COMMERCIAL HARVESTING
Ever since the Japan tsunami in 2011, the Asian demand for American eel has increased, causing a drastic decrease in eel populations¹. Locally, turbines also cause a number of deaths in the species, leading to the species’ decline in population.

Pugnose Shiner

Major Threat: POLLUTION
The pugnose shiner requires a clear and vegetated habitat in order to persist easily. Pollution is the main cause to their habitat degradation, leading to murky, unhealthy waters. These polluted habitats prevent this species from navigating, foraging and spawning effectively - ultimately causing a reduction in the population.

Atlantic Salmon

Major Threat: DAMS AND HUMAN AGRICULTURE

Increased human agriculture intensifies soil erosion and reduces the forest cover, which keeps their habitat streams cool in temperature. Atlantic salmon prefer this cooler water to live. The combination of soil erosion and the implementation of dams alters water flow, in turn causing silt to collect at the bottom of rocks in their habitat². This is the prime location for these fish to lay their eggs. The presence of dams also creates barriers for the salmon’s movement.

Grass Pickerel

Major Threat: AGRICULTURE

The Grass Pickerel have suffered from wetland habitat loss due to increased rural land use by humans. Humans have invaded this fish’s habitat for agricultural practices, resulting in homelessness for this species. Loss of habitat is therefore their major threat to population sustainability.

Bridle Shiner

Major Threat: INVASIVE SPECIES

The Eurasian Water-milfoil, an invasive species, clogs spawning sites of the Bridle Shiner, causing the species to drastically decline in population. This plant reduces oxygen levels in water and hinders fish swimming, foraging and spawning.

References:

^1, <http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/american-eel-is-in-danger-of-extinction/>

² <http://www.bringbackthesalmon.ca/?page_id=101>