Francis Marion National Forest Freshwater Mussel Surveys: Final Report

Contract No. AG-4670-C-10-0077

Prepared For:

Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests 4931 Broad River Road Columbia, SC 29212-3530

Prepared by:

The Catena Group, Inc. 410-B Millstone Drive Hillsborough, NC 27278

November 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background and Objectives ...... 1 2.0 STUDY AREA ...... 2 3.0 METHODS ...... 2 4.0 RESULTS ...... 3 5.0 DISCUSSION ...... 19 5.1 Mussel Habitat Conditions in the FMNF (Objective 1) ...... 19 5.2 Mussel Fauna of the FMNF (Objective 2) ...... 19 5.2.1 Mussel Species Found During the Surveys ...... 19 5.3 Highest Priority Mussel Fauna Streams of the FMNF (Objective 3) ...... 25 5.4 Identified Areas that Warrant Further Study in the FMNF (Objective 4) ...... 25 6.0 LITERATURE CITED ...... 28

LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Study Area: Mollusk Species Found ...... 4 Table 2. Mollusk Species Found: Wadboo Creek-Site # 110919.4tcg ...... 5 Table 3. Mollusk Species Found: Whiskinboo Creek-Site # 110919.3tcg ...... 5 Table 4. Mollusk Species Found: Cane Gully Branch-Site # 110919.2tcg ...... 6 Table 5. Mollusk Species Found: Broad Ax Branch-Site # 110921.4tcg ...... 6 Table 6. Mollusk Species Found: Nicholson Creek-Site # 110920.10tcg ...... 7 Table 7. Mollusk Species Found: Nicholson Creek-Site # 110920.11tcg ...... 7 Table 8. Mollusk Species Found: Gough Creek-Site # 110920.12tcg ...... 8 Table 9. Mollusk Species Found: Quinby Creek-Site # 110920.7tcg ...... 8 Table 10. Mollusk Species Found: Bennett Branch-Site # 110223.4tcg ...... 9 Table 11. Mollusk Species Found: French Quarter Creek-Site # 110223.1tcg ...... 9 Table 12. Mollusk Species Found: Huger Creek-Site # 110920.5tcg ...... 10 Table 13. Mollusk Species Found: Negro Field Branch-Site # 110920.6tcg ...... 10 Table 14. Mollusk Species Found: Wando River-Site # 110224.1tcg ...... 11 Table 15. Mollusk Species Found: Wando River-Site # 110224.2tcg ...... 11 Table 16. Mollusk Species Found: Flag Creek-Site # 110920.13tcg ...... 12 Table 17. Mollusk Species Found: Mattassee Branch-Site # 110222.1tcg ...... 12

Table 18. Mollusk Species Found: Wedboo Creek-Site # 110921.7tcg ...... 13 Table 19. Mollusk Species Found: Wedboo Creek Swamp-Site # 110921.8tcg ...... 13 Table 20. Mollusk Species Found: Savanna Creek-Site # 110919.5tcg/110921.6tcg ...... 14 Table 21. Mollusk Species Found: Echaw Creek-Site # 110222.4tcg/110920.8tcg ...... 14 Table 22. Mollusk Species Found: Echaw Creek-Site #110920.9tcg ...... 15 Table 23. Mollusk Species Found: Gal Branch-Site # 110224.4tcg ...... 15 Table 24. Mollusk Species Found: Wambaw Creek-Site # 110222.3tcg ...... 16 Table 25. Mollusk Species Found: Mill Branch-Site # 110224.3tcg ...... 17 Table 26. Mollusk Species Found: Tail Race Canal-Site # 110919.1tcg ...... 18 Table 27. Mollusk Species Found: Tail Race Canal-Site # 110921.5tcg ...... 18

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 ...... 30 Figure 3 ...... 32 Figure 4 ...... 33 Figure 5 ...... 34 Figure 6 ...... 35 Figure 7 ...... 36 Figure 8 ...... 37 Figure 9 ...... 38 Figure 10 ...... 39 Figure 11 ...... 40 Figure 12 ...... 41 Figure 13 ...... 42 Figure 14 ...... 43 Figure 15 ...... 44 Figure 16 ...... 45 Figure 17 ...... 46 Figure 18 ...... 47 Figure 19 ...... 48 Figure 20 ...... 49

Figure 21 ...... 50 Figure 22 ...... 51 Figure 23 ...... 52 Figure 24 ...... 53 Figure 25 ...... 54 Figure 26 ...... 55 Figure 27 ...... 56 Figure 28 ...... 57 Figure 29 ...... 58 Figure 30 ...... 59

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Francis Marion National Forest (FMNF) occurs in the Coastal Plain physiographic province of South Carolina in Charleston and Berkeley Counties. The 252,368 acre forest is bordered by the Santee River to the north, the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The western side of the forest drains to the Cooper River and the southern side to the Wando River. The Catena Group Inc. (Catena) was retained by the US Forest Service to conduct freshwater mussel surveys throughout the FMNF in accordance with the contract number AG-4670-C-10-0047. The freshwater mussel fauna (Unionidae) of North America is the richest in the world, consisting of approximately 297 species and subspecies (Turgeon et al 1998), with much of the higher classification of taxa still unresolved. The greatest species diversity occurs in the southeastern United States (Neves 1993). Johnson (1970) recognized 37 species as comprising the Southern Atlantic Slope Unionoid Faunal Province of North America, and reported 20 of those as occurring in the Cooper-Santee River Basin (CSB), a major drainage of the Southern Atlantic Slope in the southeastern United States. Twenty four species of freshwater mussels are reported to occur in the greater CSB (Bogan and Alderman 2008). The cumulative effects of the modification of aquatic habitats through impoundment, channelization, and dredging, along with sedimentation and water pollution, have resulted in dramatic declines in the freshwater mussel fauna of North America. Williams et al. (1993) considers 72% of this fauna to be extinct, endangered, threatened, or of special concern, and only 24% as stable.

1.1 Background and Objectives

At least 37 unionoid species were described from the CSB during the 19th century. Many of these species were later synonomized by Johnson (1970) with other species, the majority of which were placed into three species complexes of the genus Elliptio: E. complanata, E. icterina, and E. lanceolata. While the concept of composite species complexes is widely accepted, a number of the synonyms assigned by Johnson (1970) are disputed by many researchers and many taxonomic uncertainties remain. Six of the freshwater mussel species described from the CSB are currently recognized as valid (Bogan and Alderman 2008), Carolina Lance (Elliptio angustata), Carolina Slabshell (E. congaraea), Savannah Lilliput (Toxolasma pullus), Eastern Creekshell (Villosa delumbis), Eastern Rainbow (V. modioliformis) and Carolina Creekshell (V. vaughnaniana). Despite the rich history of collection in the CSB, there have been comparatively few surveys in the watersheds within the FMNF. The only known being when Dr. Eugene Keferl conducted a survey in Nicholson Creek at the Summerhouse Road crossing north of Huger, and reported finding Florida Pondhorn (Uniomerus carolinianus) and Round Mystery Snail (Viviparus intertextus). This study serves to update and expand the information on the freshwater mussel fauna composition within the FMNF. The objectives of the research study consisted of four components:

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 1 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011

1. Qualitatively evaluate suitability of lotic habitats throughout the basin for freshwater mussels, particularly with regards to rare species such as the Federal Species of Concern (FSC) Savannah Lilliput and the Barrel Floater (Anodonta couperiana). Both species are assigned “Highest Conservation Priority” status in the South Carolina Wildlife Action Plan (SCDNR 2005-2010). 2. Conduct qualitative mussel surveys to determine species composition and relative abundances in each of the sub-watersheds (12-HUC) within the FMNF 3. Identify the highest priority areas for mussel conservation 4. Identify areas that warrant further study with regards to the potential to support mussel diversity

2.0 STUDY AREA

The FMNF covers 252,368 acres with 24 sub-watersheds draining either to the Santee River to the north, the Wando River to the south, the Intercoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean to the East, and the Cooper River to the west (Figure 1).

3.0 METHODS

Selection of general survey locations were based on pre-survey evaluations of land use, water quality, and previous mussel survey data, to target areas with the highest potential to support mussel species. The study was initiated in February 2011, with general sub- watershed reconnaissance and surveys in wadeable habitats performed. In total, qualitative/semi-quantitative mussel surveys were performed at 38 sites within the study area as of July 1, 2011 (Figure 1). Timed searches were employed at each site; with survey length (time and distance) determined by habitat conditions and mussel abundances. The majority of sites were accessed via road crossings. Surveys were conducted by wading using bathyscopes (glass-bottom view buckets) and generally progressed in an upstream direction. The beginning and end points were recorded using GPS, with survey locations depicted in Figures 1-30. Surveys conducted in a limited area were recorded with one GPS point location. Visual and tactile methodologies were employed. All habitat types within a survey reach were evaluated; however, the majority of effort was concentrated in the areas with the highest quality habitat. The speed at which the team proceeded upstream depended on stream width, survey conditions (depth, clarity, etc.), habitat characteristics, and the presence of mussels. Surveys were conducted by Catena personnel on the following dates in 2011:  Tim Savidge: February 22-24; September 19-21  Chris Sheats: February 22-24; September 19-21  Jonathan Hartsell: February 22-24  Ivy Kimbrough: February 22-24; September 19-21

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 2 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011  Tom Dickinson: September 19-21

The following non Catena personnel assisted with the surveys on the following date:

 Eric Kruger-South Carolina Chapter of the Nature Conservancy: February 24 Mussels were collected, brought to the surface for identification, and returned to the substrate from where they were collected. Catch per unit effort (CPUE), or the number of individuals found per one person hour of survey time was calculated for each species at each surveyed site. Searches were also conducted for relict shells. The presence of a shell was equated with presence of that species; however the shells found were not factored into the CPUE. Representative photographs of each mussel species collected were taken when possible. While conducting freshwater mussel surveys, aquatic snails were also observed, and/or collected. Relative abundance for freshwater snails and freshwater clam species were estimated using the following criteria:  Very abundant > 30 per square meter  Abundant 16-30 per square meter  Common 6-15 per square meter  Uncommon 3-5 per square meter  Rare 1-2 per square meter  Ancillary adjective “Patchy” indicates an uneven distribution of the species within the sampled site. Representative mollusk specimens were kept as vouchers and will be deposited in the North Carolina State Museum of Natural Sciences (NCSM).

4.0 RESULTS

Freshwater mussels were found in portions of all sub-watersheds sampled, with a total of at least 13 species being found. In addition, two species of freshwater clam, the exotic Asian Clam (Corbicula fluminea) and an unidentified Sphaeriid Clam (Sphaeriidae), one surf clam, the Atlantic Rangia (Rangia cuneata), and nine species of aquatic snails; the File Campeloma (Campeloma linum), Marsh Ram’s Horn (Planorbella trivolvus), Two- ridge Ram’s Horn (Helisoma anceps), Banded Mystery Snail (Viviparus georgianus), Round Mystery Snail (Viviparus intertextus), Glossy Physa (Physa pomilia), an unidentified Physa (Physa sp.), an unidentified Lymanea (Pseudosuccinea sp.) and an unidentified Amnicola (Amnicola sp.) were found in the study area (Table 1).

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 3 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 1. Study Area: Mollusk Species Found # Sites SC Conservation Scientific Name Common Name Found Priority* Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ ~ Elliptio angustata Carolina Lance 2 Moderate Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 18 Moderate Elliptio congaraea Carolina Slabshell 1 Moderate Elliptio fisheriana Northern Lance 1 ~ Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 16 Moderate Elliptio sp. cf cistelliformis Box Spike 1 ~ Elliptio roanokensis Roanoke Slabshell 1 High Lampsilis splendida Rayed Pink Fatmucket 1 High Ligumia nasuta Eastern Pondmussel 1 High Pyganadon cataracta Eastern Floater 1 ~ Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 12 ~ Utterbackia imbecillis Paper Pondshell 1 ~ Villosa modioliformis Eastern Rainbow 1 Highest Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ ~ Amnicola sp. An Amnicola 3 ~ Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam 7 ~ Campeloma linum File Campeloma 19 ~ Physa pomilia Glossy Physa 4 ~ Physa sp. A Physid 2 ~ Planorbella trivolvis Marsh Ram’s Horn 3 ~ Pseudosuccinea sp. A Lymnaea 1 ~ Rangia cuneata Atlantic Rangia 1 ~ Sphaeriidae A Sphaeriid Clam 1 ~ Viviparus georgianus Banded Mystery Snail 2 ~ Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail 16 ~ *South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (2005-2010)

Stream survey segments are reported by USGS stream name, the date surveyed, and respective sequence within that date. Unnamed tributaries are noted as "UT" to the named receiving water body. Habitat descriptions and survey results are summarized below for each site and grouped by sub-watershed. Site numbers (i.e., 110223.1) indicate the date in YYMMDD (year, month, day) format with survey sequence from that day of sampling listed after the decimal point. Post survey sequence lettering “tcg” is an abbreviation for The Catena Group. 030502010201 Walker Swamp Wadboo Creek-Site # 110919.4tcg This stream channel was surveyed from the US 17A crossing to a point approximately 285 meters upstream (Figure 2). The site occurs in an extensive bottomland swamp, with no defined channel. The dominant substrate consists of coarse sand and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 1.63 person hours. Numerous shells of the Asian Clam were present in the substrate; however, no live individuals were found.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 4 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 2. Mollusk Species Found: Wadboo Creek-Site # 110919.4tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 130 79.75/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 75 46.01/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 2 1.23/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Present* *Relict shell material only

030502010202 Cane Pond Branch Whiskinboo Creek-Site # 110919.3tcg Approximately 162 meters of Whiskinboo Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of the SSR 97 crossing (Figure 3). The stream channel ranges in width from 3-5 meters and bank height from 1-1.5 meters and appears to be channelized. The stream channel is intermittently dry and the dominant substrate consists of coarse sand and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 1.1 person hours. Table 3. Mollusk Species Found: Whiskinboo Creek-Site # 110919.3tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 45 40.9/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 3 2.73/hr Elliptio cf cistellaeformis Box Spike 2 1.82/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Abundant

030502010203 Wadboo Creek Cane Gully Branch-Site # 110919.2tcg Approximately 187 meters of Cane Gully Branch was surveyed in the vicinity of the SSR 97 crossing (Figure 4). The stream channel is from 2-4 meters wide and bank height ranges from 0.5-1 meter. The substrate consists of silt, sand, roots, and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 2 person hours.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 5 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 4. Mollusk Species Found: Cane Gully Branch-Site # 110919.2tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 3 1.5/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 2 1.0/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 78 39.0/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Abundant Viviparus georgianus Banded Mystery Snail ~ Common Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Uncommon

UT Chicken Creek-Site # 110921.2tcg Approximately 120 meters of a UT to Chicken Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of the FR 204B crossing (Figure 5). The stream channel is 2-3 meters in width and banks were 0.5 to 1.0 meter in height. Substrate is detritus and woody debris. Surveys were conducted for 0.5 person hour. No mollusks observed. Broad Ax Branch-Site # 110921.4tcg An approximately 96 meter section of Broad Ax Branch was surveyed in the vicinity of the SSR 376 (Old Cherry Hill Road) crossing (Figure 6). A beaver dam was present in at the upstream end of the surveyed reach. The stream channel is 3-5 meters in width and had an undercutting bank approximately1.0 meter in height. Habitat below the bridge and beaverdam is primarily hard pack clay with isolated patches of shifty silt and sand. Surveys were conducted for 1.3 person hours. Table 5. Mollusk Species Found: Broad Ax Branch-Site # 110921.4tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 133 102.3/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 148 113.8/hr Villosa modioliformis Eastern Rainbow 1 0.77/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Common

030502010301 Turkey Creek-East Branch Cooper River Turkey Creek-Site # 110920.4tcg An approximately 123 meter section of Turkey Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of SSR 599 (Huger Road) (Figure 7). The stream ranges from 2-4 meters wide and with banks 0-1.0 meter in height with some erosion occurring. The substrate consists of silt, sand, clay, and detritus. No mollusks were observed. Surveys were conducted for 0.67 person hours.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 6 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 030502010302 Nicholson Creek Nicholson Creek-Site # 110920.10tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 255 meters downstream of the FR 166 (Conifer Road) bridges upstream to the southern bridge (Figure 8). The stream ranges from 4-6 meters wide with very stable banks 1.0 meter in height and meanders through a wide forested swamp system with multiple run and pool dominated channels downstream of the road crossing. The substrate consists of sand and detritus, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 0.67 person hour. Table 6. Mollusk Species Found: Nicholson Creek-Site # 110920.10tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 7 10.45/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 4 5.97/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 35 52.24/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common

Nicholson Creek-Site # 110920.11tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 150 meters downstream of the Lotti Road crossing, upstream to the bridge (Figure 8). The stream channel ranges from 5-7 meters wide with very stable banks 0.5-1.0 meter in height, and is bordered by forested wetlands. Habitat consists of a series of riffle/run and pool sequences with mid- channel sand bars. The substrate consists of sand and pebble, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 0.67 person hour. Mussels were very abundant in this reach, and 72 mussels (62 Eastern Elliptio, 8 Variable Spike and 2 Florida Pondhorn) were found in one square meter of substrate using hand excavation. Table 7. Mollusk Species Found: Nicholson Creek-Site # 110920.11tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 248 370.15/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 53 79.10/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 11 16.42/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

030502010303 Gough Creek Gough Creek-Site # 110920.12tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 120 meters downstream of the SC 402 crossing to a point approximately 242 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 9).

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 7 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 The stream ranges from 5-8 meters wide with very stable banks 0.5-1.0 meter in height and meanders through a wide forested swamp system downstream of the road crossing. The channel is more constricted upstream of the bridge, and is bordered by a relatively steep forested slope on the right descending side of the channel. The channel consists of run and pool habitats. The substrate consists of sand and detritus, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 2.20 person hours. Table 8. Mollusk Species Found: Gough Creek-Site # 110920.12tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 11 5.0/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 3 1.36/hr Elliptio fisheriana Northern Lance 8 3.64/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 55 25.0/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Uncommon Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Present* * Relict shell material only

Little Hellhole Reservoir-Site # 110921.3tcg

The site occurs with a pond/reservoir/wetland system that is seasonally wetted. An approximately 200 meter section across the pond was surveyed (Figure 10. The substrate consists of mud and submerged aquatic vegetation where wetted. Surveys were conducted for 0.5 person hour. No mollusks were observed during the survey. 030502010304 Quinby Creek Quinby Creek-Site # 110920.7tcg An approximately 200 meter section of Quinby Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of the SSR 98 (Cainhoy Road) crossing using SCUBA (Figure 11). The stream is up to 4 meters deep and approximately 20 meters wide. The substrate consists of gravel in mid- channel and silt, sand, and bedrock interspersed throughout. Large amounts of detritus, organic matter, and aquatic vegetation are present in the channel. Surveys were conducted for 2.67 person hours. Table 9. Mollusk Species Found: Quinby Creek-Site # 110920.7tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 7 2.62/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 13 4.87/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 2 0.75/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Common

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 8 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Bates Pond-Site # 110223.3tcg Approximately 276 meters of the shoreline in the upper portion of Bates Pond was surveyed near the SSR 598 crossing (Figure 12). The substrate consists of mud and sand, with dense mats of aquatic vegetation. No mollusks were observed in 1.5 hours of survey time. Bennett Branch-Site # 110223.4tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 65 meters downstream of Bates Pond upstream to the spillway (Figure 12). The site occurs within a braided channel hardwood/ cypress swamp system, in the main channel, which is approximately 5 meters wide. The substrate consists of coarse sand. Surveys were conducted for 2.67 person hours. Table 10. Mollusk Species Found: Bennett Branch-Site # 110223.4tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 37 13.86/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 28 10.49/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 177 66.29/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Common

030502010305 French Quarter Creek French Quarter Creek-Site # 110223.1tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 240 meters below the SC 41 crossing upstream to the crossing (Figure 13). The site occurs within a braided channel swamp system, with a well defined main channel ranging from 3-4 meters wide. The substrate consists of sand, and aquatic vegetation. Surveys were conducted for 2.0 person hours. Table 11. Mollusk Species Found: French Quarter Creek-Site # 110223.1tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 339 169.50/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 98 49.00/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 9 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 UT French Quarter Creek-Site # 110223.2tcg This sluggish stream was surveyed from a point approximately 380 meters below the SC 41 crossing to a point approximately 335 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 14). The stream, which appears to have been channelized in the past, flows through a 10-15 year cutover. The substrate consists of compact sand in the lower part of the reach, to clay and mud in the upper part. Large amounts of detritus, organic matter, and aquatic vegetation are present in the channel. No mollusk species were found in 1.40 person hours. 030502010306 East Branch Cooper River Huger Creek-Site # 110920.5tcg An approximately 964 meter section of Huger Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of the SC 402 crossing (Figure 15). The stream ranges from 4-7 meters wide with very stable banks 1.0 meter in height. The substrate consists of silt, sand, clay, pebbles, gravel, and detritus. The site occurs within a large, bottomland hardwood forest. Surveys were conducted for 1.93 person hours. Table 12. Mollusk Species Found: Huger Creek-Site # 110920.5tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 198 102.6/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 137 70.9/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Rare Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Uncommon Planorbella trivolvis Marsh Ram’s Horn ~ Uncommon Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

Negro Field Branch-Site # 110920.6tcg An approximately 295 meter section of Negro Field Branch was surveyed in the vicinity of Irishtown Road (Figure 15). The channel was mostly dry during the site visit, with isolated low wet spots and a pool below the bridge. The channel is 3 meters wide and has a very stable bank at a height of 0.5 meters. The substrate consists of sand and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 0.5 person hour. Table 13. Mollusk Species Found: Negro Field Branch-Site # 110920.6tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE None ~ ~ ~ Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Uncommon

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 10 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 030502010401 Guerin Creek Wando River-Site # 110224.1tcg This reach of the Wando River was surveyed from a point approximately 205 meters downstream of the FR 228 (I’on Swamp Road) crossing upstream to the bridge (Figure 16). The site is a large, hardwood forested, wetland system, with a poorly defined channel that has a clay and organic matter substrate. Surveys were conducted for 1.25 person hours. Table 14. Mollusk Species Found: Wando River-Site # 110224.1tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE None ~ ~ ~ Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Amnicola sp. An Amnicola ~ Common Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Common

Wando River-Site # 110224.2tcg

This reach of the Wando River was surveyed from a point approximately 600 meters west of the terminus of Clayfield Road to a point approximately 400 meters upstream (Figure 16). The defined channel is approximately 6 meters wide and flows through an extensive marsh wetland system (I’on Swamp). Fiddler crabs (Uca sp.) were abundant along the clay banks. The substrate consists of silt and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 1.67 person hours. Table 15. Mollusk Species Found: Wando River-Site # 110224.2tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE None ~ ~ ~ Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

030502010705 Upper Cooper River Flag Creek (Pepper Gully)-Site # 110920.13tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 210 meters downstream of the SSR 98 (Cainhoy Road) crossing, upstream to the bridge (Figure 17). The stream ranges from 1-2 meters wide with very stable banks 0.5 meter in height. The stream meanders through a wide forested system, and habitat consists of long, slackwater, pools with limited riffle and run sequences. The substrate consists of sand and detritus, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 2.0 person hours.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 11 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 16. Mollusk Species Found: Flag Creek-Site # 110920.13tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 9 4.50/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common

030501120105 Rediversion Canal-Santee River Mattassee Branch-Site # 110222.1tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 280 meters downstream of the SC 45 crossing, to a point approximately 70 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 18). The stream ranges from 1-3 meters wide with very stable banks 0.5 meter high. The stream meanders through a wide forested bottomland hardwood system, and habitat consists of a series on riffle-run-pool sequences. The substrate consists of sand and silt, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 1.76 person hours. Table 17. Mollusk Species Found: Mattassee Branch-Site # 110222.1tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 95 53.98/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 10 5.68/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 8 4.55/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Uncommon Physa pomilia Glossy Physa ~ Rare Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

030501120106 Penn Branch-Santee River This sub-watershed is on the periphery of the FMNF, with only a small portion of the sub-watershed occurring in the northwest portion of forest boundary. As such, it was not sampled as part of this project. 030501120201 Wedboo Creek Wedboo Creek-Site # 110921.7tcg This reach of the Wedboo Creek was surveyed from the SC 45 crossing to a point approximately 211 meters upstream (Figure 19). Numerous large beaver dams occur within the channel and adjacent floodplain that have created a large wetland swamp/marsh complex. The substrate is predominately mud and detritus with clay banks. Small pockets of coarse sand are scattered throughout. Surveys were conducted for 1.50 person hours.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 12 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 18. Mollusk Species Found: Wedboo Creek-Site # 110921.7tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 3 2.0/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Physa sp. A Physid ~ Common Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

Wedboo Creek Swamp-Site # 110921.8tcg This site occurs within the extensive cypress swamp adjacent to Wedboo Creek and was accessed off of Cooper Ridge Road (Figure 19). The swamp, which contains multiple channels with clay and detritus substrates, was entirely dry during the site visit. Approximately 438 meters of channel were surveyed. Although a few live Florida Pondhorn mussels and File Campeloma snails were found in 1.0 person hour, well over a hundred relict shells of each species were also found. Table 19. Mollusk Species Found: Wedboo Creek Swamp-Site # 110921.8tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 6 6.0/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common* *mostly relict shells

030501120202 Savanna Creek Savanna Creek-Site # 110919.5tcg and 110921.6tcg This site was initially surveyed on September 19 but was suspended due to low ambient light, and was resumed on September 21. The survey reach extended from a point approximately 380 meters downstream of the US 17A crossing, to a point approximately 36 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 20). The stream ranges from 2-5 meters wide with very stable 1.0 meter high banks and meanders through a wide forested/cutover bottomland hardwood system. The surveyed reach was mostly stagnant, with a large amount (covering > 60% substrate surface) of woody debris throughout. The substrate consisted of sand and detritus, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for a combined 2.33 person hours.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 13 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 20. Mollusk Species Found: Savanna Creek-Site # 110919.5tcg/110921.6tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 4 1.72/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Patchy Physa sp. A Physid ~ Common Planorbella trivolvus Marsh Ram’s Horn ~ Uncommon Pseudosuccinea sp. No Common Name ~ Uncommon Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Rare

030501120203 Wittee Branch This sub-watershed is on the periphery of the FMNF boundary and flows into the northeast side of the Santee River. Since this watershed is not technically within the FMNF it was not sampled as part of this project. 030501120204 Wittee Lake-Santee River This sub-watershed is on the periphery of the FMNF boundary and flows into the northeast side of the Santee River. Since this watershed is not technically within the FMNF it was not sampled as part of this project. 030501120205 Echaw Creek Echaw Creek-Site # 110222.4tcg and 110920.8tcg This site, which occurs at the SC 45 crossing of Echaw Creek, was visited briefly on February 22, but was not thoroughly surveyed due to water depth. The site was re-visited on September 20 during lower water levels. The surveyed reach extended from a point approximately 200 meters downstream of the crossing to a point approximately 84 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 21). Habitat is characterized by a wide (15-20 meter) stagnant channel with a large beaver dam across the channel in the upper limits of the survey reach, with numerous smaller dams in the adjacent floodplain. The substrate consists of silt, mud and detritus with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 2.0 person hours. Table 21. Mollusk Species Found: Echaw Creek-Site # 110222.4tcg/110920.8tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 2 1.0/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Patchy Common Physa pomilia Glossy Physa ~ Patchy Common Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Patchy Common

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 14 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011

Echaw Creek-Site # 110920.9tcg This site occurs below the SSR 172 (Shulerville Road) crossing of Echaw Creek (Figure 21). The surveyed reach extended from a point approximately 332 meters downstream of the crossing upstream to the bridge. Habitat is characterized as a wide, braided channel, swamp system that was mostly dry during the site visit, with water limited to scattered pools. The substrate consists of sand and detritus with clay banks. A large number of relict snail shells were found throughout, and large concentrations of living snails were found in the pools that were wet. Surveys were conducted for 1.0 person hour. No mussel species were found. Table 22. Mollusk Species Found: Echaw Creek-Site #110920.9tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE None ~ ~ ~ Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Common Patchy Physa pomilia Glossy Physa ~ Common Patchy Viviparus intertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Common

Gal Branch-Site # 110224.4tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 110 meters downstream of the FR 151 crossing, to a point approximately 45 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 22). The stream ranges from 2-5 meters wide with very stable 0.5 meter high banks and meanders through a wide forested bottomland hardwood system, and habitat consists of a series on run-pool sequences. The substrate consists of sand and silt, with clay banks. Surveys were conducted for 2.91 person hours. Table 23. Mollusk Species Found: Gal Branch-Site # 110224.4tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 74 25.43/hr Uniomerus carolinianus Florida Pondhorn 20 6.87/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Amnicola sp. An Amnicola Common Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Rare Physa pomilia Glossy Physa ~ Rare Planorbella trivolvus Marsh Ram’s Horn ~ Rare Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Uncommon

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 15 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011

030501120206 Dutart Creek-Santee River Dutart Creek-Site # 110222.2tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 100 meters downstream of the SC 45 crossing, to a point approximately 35 meters upstream of the crossing (Figure 23). The stream ranges from 1-3 meters wide with very stable 0.5 meter high banks. Habitat is characterized as a slackwater to slow moving stream. The substrate consists of sand and silt, with clay banks. Large amounts of detrital matter (covering > 60% substrate surface) and large woody debris are present. Surveys were conducted for 1.0 person hour and no mollusk species were observed. 030501120301 Headwaters Wambaw Creek Wambaw Creek-Site # 110222.3tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 80 meters downstream of the SC 45 crossing, up to the bridge (Figure 24). The site occurs within a weakly defined channel in a braided swamp system. Habitat is characterized as a slow moving swamp. The substrate consists of sand and mud, with clay banks. Large amounts of detrital matter (covering > 60% substrate surface) and large woody debris are present. Surveys were conducted for 2.0 person hours. Table 24. Mollusk Species Found: Wambaw Creek-Site # 110222.3tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio angustata Carolina Lance 1 0.50/hr Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 195 97.50/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 15 7.50/hr Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Patchy Campeloma limum File Campeloma ~ Uncommon

030501120302 Outlet Wambaw Creek Mill Branch-Site # 110224.3tcg This stream was surveyed from a point approximately 110 meters downstream of the FR 211 crossing, up to the bridge (Figure 25). The stream is a weakly defined channel in a braided channel swamp system. Habitat is characterized as a slow moving swamp. The substrate consists of mud (aqueous, flocculent fine silt and clay) and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 2.0 person hours.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 16 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Table 25. Mollusk Species Found: Mill Branch-Site # 110224.3tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE None ~ ~ ~ Relative Freshwater Snails and Clams ~ ~ Abundance Amnicola sp. An Amnicola ~ Common Spharidae Spharid Clam Common Viviparus inetertextus Round Mystery Snail ~ Common

Wambaw Creek-Site # 110920.1tcg An approximately 182 meter section of Wambaw Creek was surveyed using SCUBA in the vicinity of the boat landing at the end of FR 211A (Figure26). The stream is 10-15 meters in width with a bank height of 0.5 to 1.0 meter. Water depth is up to 4 meters. Substrate consists of silt, detritus, and mud, with large amounts of woody debris. This section of the creek is tidally influenced. Surveys were conducted for 3 person hours, and no mollusks were observed. 030501120303 South Santee River Cedar Creek-Site # 110921.1tcg An approximately 195 meter section of Cedar Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of the SSR 857 crossing (Figure 27). The stream channel is 4-6 meters wide and is nearly level with the surrounding floodplain. Substrate consists of detritus and mud. Surveys were conducted for 1.0 person hour and no mollusks were observed. 0305022090201 Awendaw Creek Bell Creek-Site # 110920.2tcg An approximately 37 meter section of Bell Creek downstream of FR 226 was surveyed (Figure 28). The channel is 2-3 meters in width and was dry during the site visit. Surveys were conducted for 1.0 person hour and no mollusks were observed. Steed Creek Creek-Site # 110920.3tcg An approximately 296 meter section of Steed Creek was surveyed in the vicinity of the FR 217 crossing (Figure 29). The stream ranges from 4-6 meters wide and with very stable banks 0.5 to 1.0 meter high. Habitat is characterized as a mature cypress floodplain. The substrate consists of silt, sand, clay, and detritus. Surveys were conducted for 0.67 person hour. While physical habitat attributes were similar to where freshwater mussels would be found in abundance, as indicated by the presence of clean and stable sand and clay substrates, no freshwater mussel fauna were observed during the survey effort. 030502090202 Bulls Bay This sub-watershed is on the periphery of the FMNF boundary and flows into the ICW, as such this watershed is not expected to contain a freshwater mussel fauna, and was not sampled as part of this project.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 17 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 030502010701 West Branch Cooper River Tail Race Canal-Site # 110919.1tcg An approximately 100 meter section of the Tail Race Canal (W. B. Cooper River) was surveyed in shallow habitats along the bank upstream of the boat landing off of SSR 376 (Old Cherry Hill Road). The substrate consists of fine sand over marl. Surveys were conducted for 0.67 person hour. Table 26. Mollusk Species Found: Tail Race Canal-Site # 110919.1tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio angustata Carolina Lance 1 1.49/hr Freshwater Snails and Clams Relative and Surf Clams ~ ~ Abundance Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Common

Tail Race Canal-Site # 110921.5tcg An approximately 348 meter section of the Tail Race Canal (W. B. Cooper River) was surveyed using SCUBA in all habitats from the east bank out to mid-channel in the vicinity of the boat landing off of SSR 376 (Old Cherry Hill Road) (Figure 30). Substrate consists of limestone outcroppings overlain with pockets of shell and gravel in the center channel. Small pockets of fine sand and clay are present along the slope in the downstream limits of the survey reach. Surveys were conducted for 1 person hour. Table 27. Mollusk Species Found: Tail Race Canal-Site # 110921.5tcg Abundance/ Scientific Name Common Name # CPUE Freshwater Mussels ~ ~ CPUE Elliptio congarea Carolina Slabshell 8 8/hr Elliptio complanata Eastern Elliptio 55 55/hr Elliptio icterina Variable Spike 27 27/hr Elliptio roanokensis Roanoke Slabshell 12 12/hr Lampsilis splendida Rayed Pink Fatmucket 6 6/hr Ligumia nasuta Eastern Pondmussel 1 1/hr Pyganodon cataracta Eastern Floater 2 2/hr Utterbackia imbecillis Paper Pondshell 1 1/hr Freshwater Snails and Clams Relative and Surf Clams ~ ~ Abundance Corbicula fluminea Asian Clam ~ Common Rangia cuneata Atlantic Rangia ~ Common Common/ Viviparus georgianus Banded Mystery Snail ~ Abundant

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 18 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 5.0 DISCUSSION

This study provides new and updated information of the composition and distribution of the freshwater mussel fauna within the FMNF. Streams that constitute the highest priority for mussel conservation are identified. In addition, information pertaining to some of the aquatic snail fauna of the FMNF was also generated. 5.1 Mussel Habitat Conditions in the FMNF (Objective 1) The majority of the streams within the study area are characterized as low gradient streams with swamp characteristics. While some of these types of habitats support high freshwater mussel biomass (Wadboo Creek, Broad Ax Creek, Huger Creek, Nicholson Creek, French Quarter Creek and Wambaw Creek), species diversity is generally low (<4 species per site) throughout the FMNF, with the exception of the Tail Race Canal (W. B. Cooper River), which was sampled briefly and nine species were found, and the Santee River, which was not sampled as part of this project, but is known to support high species diversity (further discussed in Section 5.2). While not quantified, it appears that large accumulations of woody debris and detritus (covering > 60% substrate surface) within a particular stream negatively influence mussel abundances. Areas with lower amounts of woody debris typically exhibited detectable flows, higher sorting of substrate and resulting substrate heterogeneity within a site, all conditions which generally correlate with greater mussel abundance. Where there were exceptions to these observations (e.g. Wambaw Creek 110222.3tcg), higher mussel density was associated with other substrate types such as fine sand or clay. It is unclear whether the woody debris jams create the stagnant conditions, or whether lack of flow results in the accumulations of woody debris. The relationship of woody debris and mussel habitat quality warrants further investigation (Section 5.4).

5.2 Mussel Fauna of the FMNF (Objective 2)

Twenty four species of freshwater mussels are reported to occur in the greater CSB (Bogan and Alderman 2008). At least thirteen species were found during this study, including Box Spike (Elliptio sp. cf cistelliformis), which was not previously reported from the CSB (Bogan and Alderman 2008). The FMNF is limited to the Coastal Plain Physiographic Province, thus many of the species known from the Blue Ridge Mountain and Piedmont Physiographic Provinces of the greater CSB are not expected to occur in the FMNF. It is very possible that the E. complanata and E. icterina complexes are represented by more than two species, which would further raise the number of species known from the FMNF.

5.2.1 Mussel Species Found During the Surveys

Brief descriptions of the thirteen species found during the surveys are provided below. The original species descriptions along with Bogan and Alderman (2008) and Johnson (1970) should be consulted for more detailed descriptions.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 19 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Elliptio angustata (Carolina Lance) - This species was described from the Cooper River, South Carolina (Lea 1831). The shell is more than twice as long as high coming to a posterior point, below the midline between the dorsal and ventral margins. The dorsal margin is straight and essentially parallel to the ventral margin. Umbos are slightly elevated with beak sculpture consisting of strong ridges. Johnson (1970) synominized this species and over 20 other named species of lance-shaped elliptio mussels into Elliptio lanceolata. Recent genotypic and phenotypic analysis suggests that some of these formally described species are valid, including “true” Elliptio lanceolata (type locality-Tar River). The Carolina lance ranges from the Ogeechee, Georgia north to the Potomac River in Maryland and Virginia. Williams et al. (1993) list this species as special concern, and it is proposed as special concern in South Carolina (Bogan and Alderman 2008). This species was found at two sites, Wambaw Creek, and Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River in low numbers. As such, habitat correlation within the FMNF is difficult to define; however, the species is usually found in large steams or rivers in thalweg habitat and is associated with coarse substrates. Elliptio cistellaeformis (Box Spike) - This species was described from the Neuse River near Raleigh, North Carolina (Lea 1863). Its range extends from the CSB north to the Tar/Pamlico drainage (Bogan 2002). Johnson (1970) synonomized this species with Elliptio complanata, however it is distinguished by its smooth, oblong very inflated shell with swollen umbos and a straight ventral margin, lending it to it’s box-like shape. It is generally more common in the lower portions of river systems, often being tolerant of tannic, swampy systems. Williams et al., (1993) listed its status as unknown. This species was found at one site, Whiskinboo Creek in low numbers. As such, habitat correlation within the FMNF is difficult to define; however, the species is usually found in low gradient, tannic streams and rivers in substrates of clay, silt, sand and/or detritus. Elliptio complanata (Eastern Elliptio) - This species was described as Mya complanata from the Potomac River in Maryland (Lightfoot 1786). Shell characteristics are highly variable. Shell shape is typically trapezoidal to rhomboid, and compressed to inflated. The usually straight ventral margin is mostly parallel with the dorsal margin and the posterior margin is broadly rounded. Shell thickness varies from thin to solid. Johnson (1970) synonomized sixteen described species from the greater CSB with E. complanata: This species is widely distributed along the Atlantic Slope from Altamaha River Basin in Georgia north to the St. Lawrence River Basin, and

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 20 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 west to Lake Superior and parts of the Hudson Bay Basin. It can be found in a variety of habitats from large rivers and, lakes to small headwater streams. The species is widespread and common throughout its range and considered “Stable” (Williams et al. 1993). Occurring at 18 sites; this species was one of the most common and abundant. Several forms occurred throughout the study area, often within a particular site. This species generally occupied multiple habitat types within a particular site. However, due to time constraints and not being the focus of this study, efforts to correlate different forms with different habitat types were not attempted. It is unclear whether the variations in shell morphology within the study area, as well as within particular sites, represent ecophenotypic or genotypic variability. Elliptio congaraea (Carolina slabshell) -This species was described from the Congaree River, South Carolina by Lea (1831). The range of this species extends from the Ogeechee River, Georgia north to the Chowan River, North Carolina. The shell is rhomboid and subcompressed with moderately full beaks. The front of the shell is wedge-shaped, with the posterior end obliquely truncate above and biangulate below. The posterior slope usually has numerous cross corrugations or wrinkles. The periostracum is greenish-yellow or tawny. Williams et al. (1993) lists this species as Special Concern. This species was found only at the Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River site occurring in deep run habitats dominated by coarse sand/pea gravel and fairly swift flow. Elliptio fisheriana (Northern Lance) - This species was described from the Chester River in Maryland (Lea 1838). The shell is more than twice as long as high coming to a posterior point, usually at or above the midline between the dorsal and ventral margins. The dorsal ridge is angled. The smooth periostracum of the northern lance is usually yellowish-green with darker green rays, becoming black with age. Johnson (1970) synonymized this species and 25 other named species of lance-shaped elliptio mussels into Elliptio lanceolata. Recent genotypic and phenotypic analysis suggests that some of these formally described species are valid, including “true” Elliptio lanceolata (type locality, Tar River). Northern populations are thinner and more elongate than those from the south. The nacre may be purple or white. The northern lance likely encompasses several lanceolate elliptios, with similar characteristics that were described from a number of river basins along the Atlantic Slope. The northern lance was found only within Gough Creek within soft substrate along the banks. The specimens in Gough Creek vary slightly from typical Northern Lance (less pointed posteriorly). Representative individuals were kept as voucher specimens and preserved in 95% ethanol to allow for genetic analysis.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 21 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Elliptio icterina (Variable Spike) - Described from the Savannah River near Augusta Georgia (Conrad 1834), this highly variable species represents a complex of nearly 50 species (Johnson 1970). The shell shape is oblong, subelliptical, or subrhomboid, with a prominent posterior ridge, and moderately elevated beaks. The periostracum is usually smooth and greenish yellow to tawny-brown. This species is considered common and currently stable throughout its range (Williams et al. 1993). Variable Spike was the second most common mussel species located during the survey efforts, found at 16 of the sites, and similar to the Eastern Elliptio, numerous shell morphologies and habitat type occurrences within this species complex were observed. Several forms occurred throughout the study area, often within a particular site. It is unclear whether the variations in shell morphology within the study area, as well as within particular sites, represent ecophenotypic or genotypic variability. Elliptio roanokensis (Roanoke Slabshell) -The Roanoke Slabshell was described from the Roanoke River (exact location unknown but presumed to be in the vicinity of the US 258 crossing near Scotland Neck) by Lea (1838). The reported range of this species extends from the Connecticut River in Massachusetts south to the Savannah River in Georgia (Walter 1954). Based on shell morphologies, Johnson (1970) synominized this and 100 other species into the Elliptio complanata complex, however, it is now widely recognized as being a valid species (Turgeon et al. 1988). The periostracum is generally very smooth, often with placations (furrows) and reddish yellow in color. Shells of this species reach lengths exceeding 150 mm. Williams et al. (1993) list this species as Special Concern, and it is proposed as threatened in South Carolina (Bogan and Alderman 2008). This species was found only at the Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River site occurring in deep run habitats dominated by coarse sand/pea gravel and fairly swift flow. Lampsilis splendida (Rayed Pink Fatmucket) - This species was described from the Altamaha River, Georgia by Lea (1838). The species replaces the closely related Eastern Lampmussel (Lampsilis radiata) in the Atlantic slope region below the Pee Dee River system (Johnson 1970). The Rayed Pink Fatmucket occurs from the Altamaha River north to the Cape Fear River basin while the Eastern Lampmussel extends from the Pee Dee River basin north the St. Lawrence River

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 22 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 basin. The rayed pink fatmucket has an oval elongate shell shape and it is generally greatly inflated. As with other members of the genus, the species is sexually dimporphic: in the male, the posterior end is bluntly pointed, and in the female, it is more broadly rounded. The outer surface of the shell can be smooth to more commonly roughened by close concentric wrinkles. Perisotracum color ranges from yellowish-green to reddish- brown often with variable dark rays. Nacre color ranges from bluish white to light purple, but is most often a deep pink. (Williams et al. 1993) list this species as Special Concern, and is proposed as special concern in South Carolina (Bogan and Alderman 2008). This species was found only at the Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River site occurring in soft substrate in shallow slow-moving water along the bank. Ligumia nasuta (Eastern Pondmussel)-This species was described from the Schuykill River near Philidelphia (Say 1817). Its range extends from the Savannah River Basin in Georgia north to the St. Lawrence River Basin, Canada and westward through the Mohawk River and Erie Canal to Lake Erie in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan (Bogan and Alderman 2008). The elongate subelliptical shell reaches a length of 102 mm. The anterior margin is rounded, and the ventral margin is broadly curved. The posterior margin is rounded and slopes to a blunt posterior point near the midline of the shell. Like members of the genus Lampsilis, this species also is sexually dimorphic with the shells of the male being more elongate, and the females more rounded, particularly in the posterior margin. The periostracum is dark olive with dark narrow green rays. Williams et al. (1993) list this species as Special Concern and it is proposed as endangered in South Carolina (Bogan and Alderman 2008). This species was found only at the Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River site occurring in soft substrate in shallow slow-moving water along the bank. Pyganadon cataracta (Eastern Floater) - Described by Say (1817) in the deep part of a milldam presumably near Philadelphia, this species is wide ranging in the Atlantic drainages from the lower St. Lawrence River Basin south to the Altamaha River Basin, Georgia, and in the Alabama- Coosa River drainage, and the Apalachicola and Coctawhatchee River Basins, Florida. The shells of this species are uniformly thin, and lack hinge teeth. The shell shape is ovate, subelliptical and elongate, with an evenly rounded anterior margin and a broadly rounded ventral margin. The periostracum is light to dark green with broad green rays on the posterior slope. Ortman (1919) recognized three generalized shell forms, the pond form, the creek/small river form and the big river form, that were related to environmental conditions. The pond form occurs in small ponds with

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 23 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 muddy substrates, and is characterized by very thin elongate inflated shells. The creek form occurs in riffle-pool habitats in gravel substrates, and is much thicker and more compressed. The big river form is generally short and inflated and occurs in soft substrates. This species is considered common and currently stable throughout its range (Williams et al. 1993). This species was found only at the Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River site occurring in soft substrate in shallow slow-moving water along the bank. Uniomerus carolinianus (Florida Pondhorn) - Described by (Bosc 1801-1804) from “the Carolinas,” this species ranges from Ocmulgee River in Georgia north to the Chowan River in Virginia. Shells are usually inflated rhomboid, to long rhomboid and reach lengths to 114 mm. The species generally exhibits a dark brown to black periostracum with a slightly roughened, satiny sheen. Teeth of the left valve contain two subequal pseudocardinals, often with a vestigal tooth above them, and one lateral tooth. This species is considered common and currently stable throughout its range (Williams et al. 1993). The Florida Pondhorn was found at 12 sites, in a variety of substrates, including sites with no flow. This species has been reported to be able to survive emersion for extended periods of time (Golladay et al. 2002).

Utterbackia imbecillis (Paper Pondshell) - Described from the Wabash River in Indiana, this mussel occurs throughout the Mississippi River and Great Lakes drainages, as well as sporadically along the Atlantic slope (Say 1829). It has an extremely thin shell that is oblong and inflated. The dorsal and ventral margins are nearly straight and parallel. The periostracum is greenish yellow with fine green rays. This species is considered common throughout its range (Williams et al. 1993). This species was found only at the Tail Race Canal W. B. Cooper River site occurring in soft substrate in shallow slow-moving water along the bank. Villosa modioliformis (Southern Atlantic Rainbow) - This species, described by Conrad (1834) from “Santee canal” in South Carolina as Unio modioliformis was synonymized with Villosa vibex, the southern rainbow by Johnson (1970). The holotype for V. vibex was described from the Black Warrior River, of the Mobile River Basin, in the Gulf of Mexico drainage in Alabama, thus it is unlikely that V. vibex from the Gulf of Mexico

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 24 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 drainages is the same species as the specimens from South Carolina described as V. modioliformis. For these reasons, Bogan and Alderman (2008) resurrected the name V. modioliformis and assigned the common name of Eastern Rainbow to this species, which ranges from the Altamaha River Basin in Georgia north to the Cape Fear River Basin in North Carolina. Further genetic analysis is expected to support these species as being genetically distinct. This species has a thin to subsolid shell that is elliptical to elongate obovate in outline. Like all Villosa, this species is sexually dimorphic. Periostracum is greenish yellow to olive brown, the surface covered with broad, unbroken to slightly wavy dark green rays usually over the entire shell surface. Nacre color is bluish white, often becoming iridescent posteriorly. Williams et al. (1993) considered the Rainbow (V. vibex) to be stable; however, the Atlantic Slope populations were not evaluated separately. It is proposed as endangered in South Carolina (Bogan and Alderman 2008), and is a species of “highest” conservation priority in the state (South Carolina Department of Natural Resources 2005-2010). It was found only in Broad Ax Creek in a clay bank. As such, habitat correlation within the FMNF is difficult to define; however, the species is usually found in the coastal plain in low gradient streams and rivers in substrates of clay, silt, and sand.

5.3 Highest Priority Mussel Fauna Streams of the FMNF (Objective 3)

As discussed earlier, the majority of stream reaches sampled within the FMNF contain low freshwater mussel species diversity (<4 species per site). This low diversity is typical of tannic, swamp water streams along the Atlantic Slope. While species diversity is low, some streams like Wadboo Creek, Broad Ax Creek, Bennett Branch, Huger Creek, Nicholson Creek, French Quarter Creek and Wambaw Creek contain very high densities of freshwater mussels. Sections of these streams with wide, natural riparian buffers, as well as populations of state or regional conservation status aquatic fauna groups (i.e. fish, crayfish, etc.) should be given highest conservation priority from a freshwater mussel standpoint.

5.4 Identified Areas that Warrant Further Study in the FMNF (Objective 4)

This study provides a current baseline for the distribution and relative abundances of the mussel fauna in the FMNF. This information is crucial for the management of these populations and evaluating likely impacts to the freshwater mussel fauna from current and future proposed uses within the forest. However, as the focus of this study was to sample all sub-watersheds within the forest boundary, intensive surveys of individual streams (with regards to full stream length, longer survey time) were not conducted. Further studies listed below in no order of priority will build on the knowledge gathered during this study and assist in the long term management of these resources in the FMNF. Habitat conditions and their effect on mussel distribution and population density It appears that large accumulations of woody debris and detritus within a particular stream negatively influence mussel abundances. The negative correlation of large accumulations of these materials with mussel abundance is based on 40 years of Catena’s cumulative experience surveying for freshwater mussels on the Southeast Atlantic slope. The relationship of woody debris (size and amount) on flow conditions, substrate

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 25 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 composition and ultimately mussel abundances warrants further quantitative investigation. Species distributional and population density surveys in selected streams Additional species distribution and population density surveys in those water bodies listed in section 5.3 would further the understanding of the mussel resources in the FMNF. For example, two sites were sampled in Nicholson Creek (110920.10tcg and 110920.11tcg), with three mussel species, the Eastern Elliptio, Variable Spike and Florida Pondhorn found at both sites. However, based on CPUE, the Florida Pondhorn was the most abundant mussel at the upstream site (110920.10tcg) with a CPUE of 52.24/hr while it was the least common species further downstream (110920.11tcg), with a CPUE of 16.42/hr. Conversely the opposite was observed for the Eastern Elliptio, with CPUE of 10.45/hr at the upstream site compared to 370.15/hr further downstream. It is unclear if these differences in abundances are a reflection of localized habitat conditions between the two sites, or whether they reflect a larger distributional change within the stream from upstream to downstream. The lower reaches of these identified water bodies, particularly near either the Santee River, or Cooper River confluences also warrant further study, to determine if some of the species found in the large rivers (Carolina Slabshell, Roanoke Slabshell, Eastern Pondmussel, etc.) also occupy the lower reaches of the tributaries. In addition, the Eastern Rainbow which was described from “Santee canal” was found in Broad Ax Branch. Further surveys are needed to determine the distribution and population density of this species in the stream. Long term population monitoring Various uses of the FMNF such as timber management and recreational use have the potential to affect the freshwater mussel fauna within and outside of the forest boundary. As discussed above, some of the streams in the forest contain high densities of mussels, which would allow for long term quantitative mussel population and in-stream habitat monitoring studies to be designed in relation to land use changes. This type of long term quantitative monitoring would be useful to adequately manage the mussel resources in the FMNF. Genetic Research As discussed throughout this report, several shell morphologies of the Elliptio species were noted across the forest boundary, and often within a particular site. Representatives of all species identified were preserved in 95% ethanol and deposited in the NCMNS to allow for genetic studies. Genetics analysis would be useful in understanding species and population diversity of the mussel faunal that occurs in the FMNF. This work will also allow for a better understanding of ecophenotypic and clinal variations of the freshwater mussel species of the Atlantic Slope. Habitat partitioning by species As discussed throughout this report, various general observations were made on habitat partitioning by species throughout the study area. Quantifiable understanding of each species use of particular microhabitats is important for the management of individual species with particular conservation concerns.

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Fish host identification The fish hosts for several mussel species occurring in the FMNF are still unknown. Laboratory and field research is needed in this area, as understanding life cycles is a critical component of species conservation.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 27 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 6.0 LITERATURE CITED

Bogan, A.E. 2002. Workbook and key to the freshwater bivalves of North Carolina. North Carolina Freshwater Mussel Conservation Partnership, Raleigh, NC, 101 pp, 10 color plates.

Bogan, A.E. and J. Alderman. 2008. Workbook and key to the freshwater bivalves of South Carolina. Revised Second Edition.

Bosc, L. A. G. 1801-1804. Histoire naturelle des coquilles contenant leur description, les moeurs des animaux qui les habitent et leurs usages. Avec figures dessinees d'apres nature. Conrad, T. A. 1834. Descriptions of some new species of fresh water shells from Alabama, Tennessee, etc. American Journal of Science and Arts, 25: 338-343. Golloway, S. W., P. Gagnon, M. Kearns, J. M. Battle, and D. W. Hicks. 2002. Changes in MusselAssemblage Composition in the Lower Flint River Basin from 1999 to 2001: An Assesment of the Impact of 200 Drought. J.W. Jones Ecological Research Center. Final Report to Georgia DNR, EPD under proposal No. 711- 10136. Johnson, R. I. 1970. The Systematics and Zoogeography of the Unionidae (Mollusca: Bivalva) of the Southern Atlantic Slope Region. Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology 140(6): 263-449. Lea, I. 1831. "Observations of the Naiades, and descriptions of new species of that and other families." Transactions of the American Philosophical Society 5 (new series)): 23-119, pls. 1-19.

Lea, I. 1863. Descriptions of twenty-four new species of Unionidae of the United States. Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. 15: 191-194.

Lightfoot, J. 1786. "A Catalogue of the Portland Museum, Lately the Property of the Duchess of Dowager of Portland, deceased, which will be sold at auction by Mr. Skinner and Co. London." Vii: 194.

Neves, R. J. 1993. A State of the Unionids Address. UMRCC symposium on the Conservation and Management of Freshwater Mussels. C. K.S., A. C. Buchanan and L. M. Kooch. Rock Island, IL, UMRCC. Proceedings in the UMRCC symposium on the Conservation and Management of Freshwater Mussels: 1-10.

Ortmann, A. E. 1919. A monograph of the naiades of Pennsylvania. Part III: Systematic account of the genera and species. Memoirs of the Carnegie Museum, 8(1): xvi- 384, 321 pls.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 28 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Say, T. 1817. Article "Concology". In W. Nicholoson (Ed.), American Edition of the British Encyclopedia or Dictionary of Arts and Sciences, Comprising an Accurate and Popular View of the Present State of Human Knowledge, 1st ed., Vol. 2: No pagination. Pls. 1-4. Philidelphia, Pennsylvania: Samuel Mitchel and Horace Ames. Say, T. 1829. Descriptions of some new terrestrial and fluviatile shells of North America. The Disseminator of Useful Knowledge; containing hints to the youth of the United States, from the School of Industry, New Harmony, Indiana, 2(19):291- 293, 23 September 1829; 2(20):308-310 7 October 1829; 2(21):323-325, 21 October 1829; 2(22):339-341, 4 November 1829; 2(23):355-356, 18 November 1829. South Carolina Department of Natural Resources 2005-2010. South Carolina Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. Accessed October 2011. http://www.wildlifeactionplans.org/pdfs/action_plans/sc_action_plan.pdf

Turgeon, D. D., Bogan, A. E., Coan, E. V., Emerson, W. K., Lyons, W. G., Pratt, W. L., Roper, C. F. E., Scheltema, A., Thompson, F. G., & Williams, J. J. 1988. Common and scientific names of aquatic invertebrates of the United States and Canada: Mollusks. Bethesda, Maryland: American Fisheries Society, Special Publication 16. Williams, J. D., Warren, J., M.L., Cummings, K. S., Harris, J. L., & Neves, R. J. 1993. Conservation status of the freshwater mussels of the United States and Canada. Fisheries, 18(9): 6-22.

Freshwater Mussel Survey Report FMNF Page 29 TCG Job# 3287 November 2011 Figure 1