We assessed four potential sources of error in estimating size of the population of Devils Hole pupfish (Cyprinodon diabolis): net, time of day, diver, and order of diver. Experimental dives (3/day) were conducted during 4 days in July 2009. Effects of the four sources of error on estimates from dive surveys were analyzed using a split-split plot ANOVA. Diver and order of diver had no significant influence on estimates, whereas the effect of presence or absence of a net was significant. Effects of time of day and presence or absence of a net showed a significant interaction with depth of water. Results indicated that pupfish may move upward during the dive, and as a result, the standard methods of dive surveys may underestimate abundance.
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1 March 2012
Identifying Sources of Error in Surveys of Devils Hole Pupfish (Cyprinodon diabolis)
Maria C. Dzul,
Michael C. Quist,
Stephen J. Dinsmore,
Philip M. Dixon,
Michael R. Bower,
Kevin P. Wilson,
D. Bailey Gaines
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The Southwestern Naturalist
Vol. 57 • No. 1
March 2012
Vol. 57 • No. 1
March 2012