Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Biological Sciences
Committee Chair
Zachary Culumber
Committee Member
Matthew Niemiller
Committee Member
Michael Sandel
Research Advisor
Zachary Culumber
Subject(s)
Freshwater fishes--Alabama--Madison County, Freshwater fishes--Alabama--Limestone County, Freshwater fishes--Habitat, Biodiversity
Abstract
This study examined how physical habitat characteristics influence freshwater fish diversity in streams of Madison and Limestone Counties, Alabama. Ten 150-meter stream reaches were sampled using backpack electrofishing and seining, with habitat variables measured at fixed transects. Principal component analysis identified four main habitat gradients representing flow and substrate, channel size, gravel dominance, and canopy–bedrock conditions. Although overall species richness and Shannon diversity were not significantly related to these gradients, species-specific correlations revealed clear ecological preferences. Regression models showed that root wads, herbaceous vegetation, and riprap modestly increased richness, emphasizing the role of structural diversity. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining heterogeneous stream habitats to support fish communities in North Alabama and provide a foundation for future habitat restoration and monitoring efforts.
Recommended Citation
Fitts, Joshua, "Factors affecting freshwater fish communities in two North Alabama counties" (2025). Theses. 795.
https://louis.uah.edu/uah-theses/795