Nest site selection and aspects of the reproductive biology of the pygmy sculpin (Cottus paulus) in Coldwater Spring, Calhoun County, Alabama

Abstract – Imperiled pygmy sculpins are known from only one locality in Alabama, USA. One conservation strategy for the species is the creation of another population by introducing the species into a suitable habitat. Before such action is considered, however, an understanding of the life history, including reproductive biology and habitat use, of the species must be obtained. In this study, nesting of pygmy sculpins was found to peak in July, although the species has an extended reproductive period. Preferred nesting sites had higher flow and shallower water depth than the surrounding habitat. Pygmy sculpins readily used artificial nest substrates that were introduced into the spring run, where natural nest substrate was uncommon. ^Note