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FISC - Biology
Research and monitoring to meet the needs of managing the resources of the southeastern region.FISC biological science capabilities include applying Adaptive Management research and tools to resource management decisions that involve high levels of uncertainty. This work is done in cooperation with federal and community partners to address societal needs. Biologists at FISC are also involved in gathering long term data sets to examine changes in populations and habitats over time. A well known data set is the Manatee Photo Identification Database. Manatees are just one example of key indicators species that are part of long term ecosystem studies. American alligators are another example of an indicator species that provides scientists and resource managers with insight into ecosystem health based on the population health of alligators in their natural environment. One of Florida's, and the nation's most critical environmental threats is the increased numbers and populations of invasive species. Across the nation invasive species are impacting rivers, wetlands and lakes. The FISC NAS program maintains up to date information on invasive and exotic species across the country providing species alerts, fact sheets and maps to track and predict the spread of invasives. USGS Florida Science HighlightsFlorida Sand Removal Impact Assessment Database
Healthy Springs, Healthy Manatees
Using endangered species as models of survival may require quite a stretch of the imagination, but that's exactly how USGS biologists view certain populations of manatees. North Florida is dotted with warm artesian springs that attract manatees seeking refuge from winter's cooler temperatures. USGS scientists monitor manatee populations at some of these springs, in order to obtain annual estimates of survival and reproduction. Similar estimates obtained in other regions of the state indicate that manatees that overwinter at springs may fare better than those that winter in regions without springs.
At Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, USGS scientists and their partners have conducted manatee health assessments for the past 3 years, and plan to conduct assessments at other sites in the future. Links to hydrology, such as continuous, adequate flow of spring waters is of paramount importance to manatees, and water quality is also of concern. Ultimately, scientists hope to be able to provide information on how to keep springs healthy for manatee survival. Silent Streams?
The 700 fishes now listed represent a staggering 92 percent increase over the 364 listed as "imperiled" in the previous Of Current InterestFlorida Natural History Lecture Series
The U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY and the SPIRIT OF THE SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK in Live Oak have teamed up to bring the latest scientific news on Florida Wildlife and our unique natural environment directly to the public. Once a month a noted research scientist will present a one-hour illustrated talk on topics ranging from jumping sturgeons to deep-reef fishes. Talks will be interactive - any and all questions are welcome. Increase your understanding of the natural world of Florida, and learn what you can do to help preserve it. The FLORIDA NATURAL HISTORY LECTURE SERIES was kicked off in October 2008 and will continue through 2009. This month's lecture will feature Dr. Bob Bonde of the U.S. Geological Survey. His talk is entitled: "The Future of the Florida Manatee - Mermaids in Peril". See accompanying flyer. USGS DISCOVRE Expedition
Diversity, Systematics, and Connectivity of Vulnerable Reef EcosystemsThe 4-year multidisciplinary research program will focus on understanding the physical oceanography, biology, ecology, genetic connectivity, and trophodynamics of deep coral environments in the Gulf of Mexico (300-1000 m depths), both within natural and artificial (shipwreck) sites.
Recent Publications
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U.S. Geological Survey
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Page Last Modified: Wednesday, 11-Feb-2009 14:59:49 EST
The MMS has identified an immediate need to compile a synopsis of available literature on existing environmental conditions in Federal waters along the Florida coastline. The USGS comprehensive literature database provides information on the existing physical, biological, and socioeconomic conditions of the Florida marine environment, including potential dredging and sand placement sites, as well as any potential effects the proposed dredging and placement activities might have on these environments. 
Nearly 40 percent of fish species in North American streams, rivers and lakes are now in jeopardy, according to the most detailed evaluation of the conservation status of freshwater fish in the last 20 years.![holiday darter [Etheostoma brevironstrum (Amicalola Creek population)] Photo by Noel Burkhead, USGS](/images/thumbnails/etheostoma_brevirostrum_hol.jpg)
1989 study published by the American Fisheries Society. Researchers classified each of the 700 fishes listed as either vulnerable (230), threatened (190), or endangered (280). In addition, 61 fishes are presumed extinct.
