Distribution, Relative Abundance, and Habitat Associations of Warrior Bass in the Black Warrior Watershed, Alabama

Abstract

Single season occupancy and zero inflated poisson models were used to identify relationships between Warrior Bass Micropterus warriorensis occurrence, relative abundance, and multiscale habitat factors. Warrior Bass distribution and relative abundance were assessed by conducting canoe and backpack electrofishing surveys. Habitat data were quantified over multiple spatial scales using existing geospatial data and stream surveys. Warrior Bass were detected in 31% stream sites and detection probability increased with sampling effort. Warrior Bass occurrence probability increased with the amount of run and rock habitat within a reach, was higher in catchments containing limestone, and lower in catchments with a higher disturbance index. Warrior Bass occurrence was higher in 2021 compared to 2020 likely due to my sampling scheme. Warrior Bass density (per m2) decreased with increasing drainage area and was higher in catchments comprising higher percentages of limestone. Overall, Warrior Bass distribution and abundance were limited throughout the Black Warrior watershed.