Restoration ecology--Florida--Kissimmee River Watershed

The channelized Kissimmee River experiences seasonally low dissolved oxygen levels
which have changed the ecosystem to favor air-breathing species, while gamefish
populations have declined greatly. In 2001 , the central portion of the river (Pool C) was
physically restored.
To evaluate the usefulness of various stress markers and assess the success of the partial
restoration, the stress responses were analyzed (brain monoamines, heat shock proteins,
and plasma cortisol) of air-breathing fish (bowfin, Florida gar), versus gamefish
(largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish). Fish were collected from hypoxic and normoxic
water at three sites in the Kissimmee River. Statistical analysis (MANOV A) showed
overall significantly higher stress response in hypoxic gamefish than those in normoxia,
with higher hsp72 levels, DOPAC, and Dopamine turnover (DOPAC:DA). Hsp60 and
cortisol was significantly higher only in hypoxic bass while serotonin and 5-HIAA were
significantly higher in hypoxic bluegill sunfish. Air-breathers did not show higher stress
levels during hypoxia.

The density and diversity of fishes of the Kissimmee River Floodplain have been affected by channelization of the Kissimmee River. Reduced hydrology, human encroachment, and overall loss of habitat appear to have reduced the level of fish diversity and density within the floodplain of the Kissimmee River. This landmark study collected vegetative habitat and fish population density and diversity data within the altered floodplain for baseline information prior to initiation of river restoration activities in the form of dechannelization. Secondary studies included poecillid fecundity data as well as a localized rotenone study within the previously restored am of Pool B. Overall results of the study indicate that post restoration floodplain fish collection studies should reveal increased fish density and diversity within the expanded and restored floodplain habitat.

This study focused on whether wetland vegetation could become re-established on a newly restored floodplain of the Kissimmee River if seasonal floodplain inundation were re-established. The wetland was re-created by back-filling a section of the Kissimmee Canal and diverting water flow into remnant river meanders. Seasonal flooding did occur during the study period. There were no other interventions to promote wetland plant growth. Ten vegetation quadrats were stratified between the back-filled canal and adjacent floodplain. These quadrats were monitored for 11 months. Of the 68 plant species recorded, 72% were obligate, facultative wetland or aquatic species. Diversity, richness, and percent cover of wetland plants increased with time. Coverage of broadleaf marsh habitat increased with increasing water depths. Vegetation at the end of the study period was similar to pre-channelized estimates. Restoration of hydrologic fluctuations appears sufficient to re-establish wetland habitat in this area of the Kissimmee River basin.