Evaluation of Host Fishes for the Brook Floater (Alasmidonta varicosa) from Populations in Massachusetts and Maine, USA

The Brook Floater (Alasmidonta varicosa) mussel is globally vulnerable and has disappeared from much of its historical range. Information on host fish use needed for ecological conservation purposes, but previous laboratory studies provide conflicting results. We evaluated by populations in Massachusetts Maine, USA. conducted three experiments using a total 10 species six families, we estimated glochidial attachment rate juvenile metamorphosis rate. Across species, ranged 51.0% to 84.6% 4.9% 80.9%. Fish inoculation density (viable glochidia/mL) only weakly predicted attachment, the number glochidia that attached did not affect Juvenile was successful all tested, supporting evidence generalist. an important factor predicting rates experiments. highest Slimy Sculpin (Cottus cognatus) (80.9% ± 2.6 SD) Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) (71.6%), varied according source lowest hatchery-raised (12.8% 0.3 SD). These data contribute our understanding life history identifying potential fishes, results can inform propagation efforts this northeastern