Simone Pond Restoration

The Goal:

Simone Pond is currently undergoing restoration towards the reintroduction of the desert pupfish,  Cyprinodon macularius.

The desert pupfish was listed as federally endangered in 1986 due to habitat  loss and modification, pollution, and predation from non-native species. Establishing refugia habitats, such as Simone Pond, is part of the Federal  Recovery Plan to support and recover the population.

 

 

The Problem:

The introduction of several non-native species—such as red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) and tilapia  (Oreochromis aureus)—ultimately led to the demise of desert pupfish in Simone Pond. In 2009, the  last two pupfish found during surveys were relocated.

Both crayfish and tilapia have rapid reproductive cycles and can produce numerous offspring, which makes  them difficult to remove. Furthermore, crayfish can burrow, walk on land, and persist outside of water. Consequently, previous  removal projects have proven unsuccessful.

CNLM estimated that by January 2019, there were over 23,000  crayfish and 4,000 tilapia in Simone Pond!

 

 

The Solution: 

In January 2019, a new restoration plan was launched. This plan first focused on hiring an aquatic biologist to spearhead the effort. He then outlined a unique and integrative approach to removing the invasive species. Techniques included trapping and removing the  invasive species, draining the pond, electrofishing, and the application  of naturally-derived pesticides. 

 

For More Information: 

Schedule a tour of Simone Pond with the preserve’s own aquatic biologist here.