An Examination of Invertebrate Community Composition and Density Differences Between Poor- and High-Quality Restored Wetlands in Central Interior British Columbia

Wetlands restored by Ducks Unlimited within the Central Interior of British Columbia are experiencing differences in the reproductive success of waterfowl. While some wetlands are facilitating the production of large broods of young, others are seeing low yields. During their breeding periods, waterfowl are dependent on food resources within wetlands to reproduce. Benthic macroinvertebrates (BMIs) are one of the primary food sources forged by dabbling ducks and are a key factor affecting their breeding success. Since BMIs play a critical role in dabbling ducks’ life cycle, food could be the predominant issue affecting reproduction. This project will compare the relative abundance and biomass of benthic macroinvertebrates between wetlands with high- and low-reproductive success as a potential cause of site differences. The results from this study will help build a greater understanding of factors that affect dabbling duck populations and improve wetland-restoration practices aimed at supporting dabbling duck populations.

Faculty Supervisor:

Douglas Ransome

Student:

Partner:

Ducks Unlimited Canada (BC)

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Finance and Insurance; Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

British Columbia Institute of Technology

Program: