September 5, 2007

ESUs and distinct population segments

I've added links to three papers that debate the definition of “distinct population segments” in vertebrates to the detail page for today's lecture. We'll revisit some of these issues in a couple of weeks when we talk about systematics and conservation genetics.

Tanner Steeves also pointed out that the FY 2004 expenditure report on the ESA is available at http://www.fws.gov/endangered/expenditures/reports/FWS%20Endangered%20Species%202004%20Expenditures%20Report.pdf. It's a large file and it takes quite a while to load. A few interesting facts:

  • 9 of the 10 listed entities with the highest expenditures are populations of salmon in the Pacific Northwest.
  • 7 of the 10 species with the highest expenditures are fish.
  • Total state and federal expenditures were approximately $1.4 billion.
Posted by Kent at September 5, 2007 3:37 PM | TrackBack