Conservation of Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout in Yellowstone National Park: A Case Study
2009
The Yellowstone cutthroat trout (YCT; Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) has become a species of special concern for Yellowstone National Park (YNP) fisheries biologists. Although this subspecies formerly occupied a greater area than any other inland cutthroat trout, the current distribution of YCT is now limited to several watersheds within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Increased angling pressure, whirling disease, and the introduction of nonnative lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) threaten the sustainability of cutthroat trout within YNP. Biologists believe these factors could result in a 70% decline in YCT abundance in Yellowstone Lake over the next 100 years if no management actions are taken. Therefore, management strategies have been developed to minimize the effects of these stressors, but some of the native YCT populations are still in jeopardy of extirpation within YNP. This case study was developed to provide instructors with an example of management and conservation issues that are common among many ecosystems within the United States. Additional resources (i.e., internet sources, classroom activities, and discussion questions) are provided that teachers can use to facilitate discussion among their students.
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