Thermal controls of Yellowstone cutthroat trout and invasive fishes under climate change

• DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12262
• Publication Date: 2013-05-20T10:50:40Z
• Authors: Robert Al‐Chokhachy; Jay Alder; Steven Hostetler; Robert Gresswell; Bradley Shepard
• Keywords: Elevation (ballistics)

We combine large observed data sets and dynamically downscaled climate to explore historic future (2050-2069) stream temperature changes over the topographically diverse Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (elevation range = 824-4017 m). link temperatures with fish growth models investigate how changing thermal regimes could influence distribution persistence of native cutthroat trout (YCT) competing invasive species. find that during recent decade (2000-2009) surpass anomalously warm period 1930s. Climate simulations indicate air will by 1 °C >3 mid-21st century, resulting in concomitant increases 2050-2069 peak protracted periods warming from May September (MJJAS). Projected MJJAS growing season modify trajectories daily rates at all elevations pronounced early late summer. For high-elevation populations, we considerable body mass attributable both cold-water extended seasons. During July August warming, century cause increased stress, rendering some low-elevation streams less suitable for YCT. The majority (80%) sites currently inhabited YCT, however, display minimal loss (<10%) or positive total midcentury; attribute this response fact many populations YCT have already been extirpated historical land use invasions non-native Our results further suggest benefits due warmer cold be offset interspecific effects corresponding sympatric, species, underscoring importance developing adaptation strategies reduce limiting factors such as species habitat degradation.