Abstract
This study presents a GIS-based predictive habitat suitability model for the Kentucky arrow darter (Etheostoma spilotum), a fish species of the upper Kentucky River basin that is a candidate for federal listing by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The model is based on previous work: the development of a similar predictive model for identifying the habitat of the blackside dace, a threatened minnow species of the upper Cumberland River basin in Southeastern Kentucky. The research describes a weighted, rules-based system which incorporates expert knowledge about habitat preferences for the arrow darter. For this model, five habitat factors were identified by experts as essential to modeling the habitat: stream gradient, canopy coverage, land cover, riparian zone width, and stream order. Using a GIS, the five habitat factors were parameterized and combined across the entire Kentucky River basin stream network. Experts evaluated combinations of habitat factors to determine habitat suitability. Using locational modeling statistics, the resulting model was tested against known Kentucky arrow darter occurrences. The analysis demonstrated successful identification of streams where the arrow darter was likely — and unlikely — to exist. Model results could be useful to transportation planners, particularly when determining sensitive landscape that could be impacted by transportation planning processes. This model may help planners save money on habitat mitigation when transportation initiatives take place in known unsuitable arrow darter habitats. A GIS model similar to the one developed in this study may be applicable to other endangered species.
Report Date
8-2015
Report Number
KTC-15-10/SPR14-483-1F
Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.13023/KTC.RR.2015.10
Repository Citation
Blandford, Benjamin L.; Shouse, Michael; and Ripy, John, "A GIS-Based Expert Systems Predictive Habitat Model for Threatened and Endangered Species: Case Study Using Kentucky Arrow Darter" (2015). Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report. 1498.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/ktc_researchreports/1498
Notes
© 2015 University of Kentucky, Kentucky Transportation Center
Information may not be used, reproduced, or republished without our written.
The contents of this report reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Center, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the United States Department of Transportation, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The inclusion of manufacturer names or trade names is for identification purposes and should not be considered an endorsement.