Page 47 - 2020 Jan/Feb Outdoor Oklahoma

wiLDLiFeDePartment.com

Project F-50-R-26: Estimating population and Alligator gars are the largest freshwater
fish species in Oklahoma and the third-
exploitation of Alligator Gar (Atractosteus largest in North America, making them
spatula) in Lake Texoma. popular with sport anglers. Their toothy,
threatening appearance in conjunction with
Project Leader: Richard Snow, Oklahoma Fishery Research Laboratory the misconception that they prey primarily on
(ODWC). sportfish have given them a bad reputation.
However, these creatures play a critical role in
The alligator gar is among four species of gar in Oklahoma. They are most- maintaining an ecological balance.
ly found in Lake Texoma, the upper Red River and its tributaries.
Stream flow is a critical factor in the life cycle of these large fish, as they
need enough flowing water to access spawning habitat in the Red River
above Lake Texoma. As the number of people who bowfish for alligator gar
increases, so does the concern regarding potential effects on the popula-
tion of this ancient species. But before biologists can identify any potential KeLLy aDams/oDwc
angling impact, they must first have quality population data that includes
population total estimates, age structure and sex ratios.
Currently, more than 250 alligator gars have been tagged in this study.
Project investigators have also collected aging structures (otoliths) from
23 of 25 alligator gar reported as harvested by anglers. Additionally, biol-
ogists are working to determine the survival rate of alligator gars that are
caught and released, and how many alligator gars are harvested by anglers
annually. Results of this work will provide much needed data for the Wildlife
Department to better manage Oklahoma’s largest, most ancient fish, while
providing the most opportunity for anglers.

These research projects highlight the importance of stream flows for fish-
eries diversity across Oklahoma. From the smallest of fish such as the prairie
chub or peppered shiner, all the way up to our largest fish, the alligator gar,
the health of the state’s fish populations depends on flowing waters.
Managing and conserving these stream resources provides benefits to
Oklahoma anglers and to conservation-minded citizens. Good stewardship
of our streams will leave a legacy of conservation that can be enjoyed by
future generations of Oklahomans.

(Information and Education Specialist Kelly Adams contributed to this article.)

EDITOR’S NOTE: Many conservation research projects are completed each year by Instream flow of water is of primary concern
the Wildlife Department. For a partial listing of recent projects and final reports from to researchers studying conservation of
Oklahoma’s rivers, like the Illinois River in
those efforts, go www.wildlifedepartment.com/wildlife/wildlife-diversity/research/swg. eastern Oklahoma.
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