Terms of Reference

Review of the Information for the Identification of Critical Habitat for Cowichan (Vancouver) Lamprey

Regional Peer Review – Pacific Region

October 30, 2013
Nanaimo BC

Chairperson: Chrys Neville

Context

The Cowichan (Vancouver) lamprey (Lampetra macrostoma) is a species derived from the Pacific lamprey (L. tridentata) and is reported only in Cowichan and Mesachie lakes on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. L. macrostoma was deemed a separate species based on its unique morphological and physiological traits, primarily its large oral disk and physiological adaptation to freshwater. There has been little or no research done on this species since the 1980s and no firm conclusions can be drawn with the current data regarding population status and trends. Its extreme endemic distribution is the principal factor in its designation as Threatened, and suggests that the species will always remain at some risk.

A variety of factors threaten the Vancouver lamprey and its associated habitat, though the extent and severity of threats are unknown. DFO SARA Management Program has requested science advice in support of the identification of critical habitat and residence and development of the Action Plan for the Cowichan Lamprey under SARA. 

Objectives

The following working paper will be reviewed by meeting participants:

MacConnachie, S  2013. Recommendations for the identification of critical habitat for the Cowichan (Vancouver) Lamprey (Lampetra macrostoma). CSAP Working Paper 2013/PXX.

The working paper will be used to provide advice with respect to the following objectives:

• Provide the best available information regarding the geospatial extent and the biophysical attributes, features and functions of the habitat necessary for the survival or recovery of Cowichan lamprey in Canadian Pacific waters. 
• Provide the best available information regarding residence for Cowichan Lamprey.

Expected publications

• CSAS Science Advisory Report (1)
• CSAS Research Document (1)
• CSAS Proceedings

Participation

• DFO Science, Ecosystem Management Branch, Species at Risk, Policy and Economics
• Province of BC
• Non-governmental organizations
• Regional district of North Cowichan
• Other Stakeholders

References Cited

Vancouver Lamprey Recovery Team. 2007. Recovery Strategy for the Vancouver Lamprey (Lampetra macrostoma) in Canada. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa, ix + 21 pp.