EFFECTS OF AN INTRODUCED SPECIES ON MARINE INTERTIDAL TROPHIC INTERACTIONS AND ECOSYSTEM STRUCTURE IN THE ALEUTIAN ISLANDS, ALASKA (F5E20929)

• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: 2007
• Subjects: Alaska; Aleutian Islands
• Online Access: http://oaspub.epa.gov/eims/eimsapi.dispdetail?deid=138548

Preliminary analysis of the intertidal survey data supports my hypothesis that islands with rats have greater numbers of marine intertidal invertebrates and less fleshy algal cover while islands without rats demonstrate the opposite pattern. In addition, there appear to be fewer marine birds on islands with rats, further supporting my hypothesis of a trophic disruption caused by the presence of rats. A comprehensive analysis of all of my data along with the isotope and captive work remains to be completed. Dissertation work contributes to the understanding of how invasive species can affect entire communities through trophic disruption. In addition, my research has a direct conservation application in that the Aleutian Islands are part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and my work will contribute to the ongoing effort by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to eradicate rats from these islands and restore their native biodiversity.