Missouri

Project Title: Evaluation of Health Conditions, Reproductive Hormones, and Mercury in Adult Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis)

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Evaluation of Health Conditions, Reproductive Hormones, and Mercury in Adult
Hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis)
E-1-45
01 July 2006 - 30 June 2007

I. NEED
Both the eastern (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) and Ozark hellbenders
(Cryptobranchus alleganiensis bishopi) have experienced marked population declines. Data reveal a shift in age structure of hellbender populations, with larger, mature individuals being most prevalent and young age classes being virtually absent (Wheeler et al. 2003). With the decline of hellbenders and a shift in age structure over the years, much information is needed on the general health conditions of this aging population of hellbenders.

Preliminary information has been provided by Dr. Yue-wern Huang (University of Missouri-Rolla) regarding hematology and serum chemistry (Solis and Huang, 2005a), reproductive hormones (Solis and Huang, 2005b), and chemical and nutrient assessment (Shuang 2005). This research provided much insight as to the next steps and directions needed to help recover hellbenders in Missouri. Investigating and understanding the health conditions and reproductive hormones in hellbenders is important in assessing if this aging population can successfully reproduce in the wild across Missouri's rivers, as well as determine the feasibility of removing wild captured hellbenders for long-term propagation efforts.

The complete 6-page grant proposal is available as a PDF.

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