Department of Fish and Wildlife Coordination and Assistance Programs Grant for Delta Smelt Larval Survival Improvement

The proposed project is to design a culture method and construct a culture system that maximizes the recovery rate of refuge stock delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) larvae reared in single-family, full-sibling groups. Specific project objectives are to: 1) design, construct and test a culture system in which larvae are reared in single-family, full-sibling groups; 2) optimize the cultural conditions and timing of multi-group consolidation into juvenile rearing tanks; 3) optimize the rearing condition of juvenile single families using current aquaculture systems; and 4) increase production in the culture system to accommodate large-scale larval rearing.
Authorizing Legislation: Fish and Wildlife Act; Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act; Fish and Wildlife Improvement Act; and Endangered Species Act.