Investigating damselfly populations at springs in Banff National Park, Canada, with special focus on Argia vivida, Amphiagrion abbreviatum, and Ischnura cervula (Odonata : Coenagrionidae)

Hornung, CLR; Pacas, C

HERO ID

4288144

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2006

HERO ID 4288144
In Press No
Year 2006
Title Investigating damselfly populations at springs in Banff National Park, Canada, with special focus on Argia vivida, Amphiagrion abbreviatum, and Ischnura cervula (Odonata : Coenagrionidae)
Authors Hornung, CLR; Pacas, C
Journal Aquatic Ecology
Volume 40
Issue 1
Page Numbers 49-58
Abstract The objective of this study was to estimate Argia vivida (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) populations, identify breeding habitat, and investigate movement of adults within Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, during the summer of 2003. Mark-recapture techniques and standardized dip-net surveys were used to monitor Argia vivida at various life stages. A reproductive index identified which sites Argia vivida recognized as suitable breeding habitat, and exuvia surveys confirmed breeding sites. The basic structure of emergent and surrounding vegetation was measured to investigate the importance of available ovipositing or roosting sites and the condition of the matrix habitat. Data was recorded for Amphiagrion abbreviatum and Ischnura cervula (both Odonata: Coenagrionidae) to determine if these spring-associated damselflies were successfully breeding within Banff National Park. Comparisons were made between the highly protected Middle Springs and the heavily altered Cave & Basin Springs. Additional surveys at the Vermilion Lake cool spring and Middle Springs Bog investigated their use as breeding habitat for Amphiagrion abbreviatum and Argia vivida, respectively. Results suggest the ecological value of thermal springs extends beyond their origin to outflows and downstream pools. Conservation of Argia vivida must recognize the value of unobstructed thermal outflows, and consider the condition of the forested habitat surrounding springs with regard to its potential use as nocturnal roosts and dispersal corridors. Amphiagrion abbreviatum was confirmed breeding within Banff National Park, while no sign of breeding activity was recorded for Ischnura cervula.
Doi 10.1007/s10452-005-9017-z
Wosid WOS:000235545900005
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public Yes
Keyword Argia vivida; mark-recapture; Odonata; population estimates; thermal springs; zygoptera