Using Spatial Ecological and Genetic Data to Inform Conservation of Endangered Roanoke Logperch

Effective darter conservation rests upon determining 1) the geographic scales over which key population processes operate, and 2) which populations are in greatest need of protection or restoration. We synthesized results of movement, demographic, and genetic studies to draw inferences about the geographic scaling of population processes in federally endangered Roanoke logperch (Percina rex). We then used among-population variation in geographic distribution, genetic diversity, and genetic divergence to rank the seven known Roanoke logperch populations with respect to demographic and genetic threats. Movement, demographics, and gene flow all appeared to operate over the spatial scales of rivers to watersheds, indicating the importance of regionally-focused conservation strategies for this species. Apparent levels of demographic and evolutionary threat varied widely among populations. Two populations were geographically extensive, contained high genetic diversity, and were regarded as relatively “safe”, whereas two other populations were geographically restricted, had low genetic diversity, and therefore were regarded as “insecure” for both demographic and genetic reasons. Such a ranking system could be used to develop scientifically defensible prioritization strategies for conservation of Roanoke logperch, and may prove useful for conservation of other darters as well.