Research Document - 2014/059

Assessment of Information Required for the Identification of Critical Habitat for Northern Madtom (Noturus stigmosus), Spotted Gar (Lepisosteus oculatus), Lake Chubsucker (Erimyzon sucetta) and Pugnose Shiner (Notropis anogenus) in Canada

By Nicholas E. Mandrak, Amy L. Boyko, and Shawn S. Staton

Abstract

Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA) requires the development of recovery strategies for species listed as Endangered or Threatened under the Act (SARA, Schedule 1). As mandated by SARA, recovery strategies must include a description of critical habitat to the extent possible based on the best available information. When sufficient data are lacking, a schedule of studies may be included that, when completed, would allow critical habitat to be identified. Critical habitat is defined under Section 2 of SARA as, “the habitat necessary for the survival or recovery of a listed wildlife species and that is identified as the species’ critical habitat in the recovery strategy or in an action plan for the species”. Once designated, SARA provides provisions to protect critical habitat of these species.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science has been asked to provide a review of the information required for the identification of critical habitat. Species-specific descriptions of critical habitat have been proposed by recovery teams for four species at risk (Northern Madtom, Noturus stigmosus; Spotted Gar, Lepisosteus oculatus; Lake Chubsucker, Erimyzon sucetta; Pugnose Shiner, Notropis anogenus). Science advice on a population-by-population basis is requested for each of the four species across their Canadian range, taking into consideration the limited data available for each population. The science advice should include a conceptual framework for identifying information required for the identification of critical habitat for freshwater fishes and, thus, provide general guidance that may be adapted for broader usage.

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