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19 <br />and water diversions. Field surveys conducted in 1979 indicate poor reproduc- <br />tion in the upper river reaches of Utah. In fact, collections made in December <br />over several miles of river produced a total of only 13 specimens. Collection <br />in October in the same area resulted in only 38 specimens. Other native <br />species were common in October but rare in the December collections. Habitat <br />partitioning studies for the Virgin River will be concluded in the spring of <br />1980, and food habits are currently being studied. It is recommended that <br />intensive field surveys be conducted this spring to determine if the December <br />collections were aberrant or indicative of the entire system. The river is <br />currently facing major modifications from a desalinization plant, Allan-Warner <br />Valley water project, and agricultural and domestic water diversions. <br />Rhinichthys osculus moapae: Moapa River Speckled Dace <br />This subspecies occurs along the mid-reaches of the Moapa River and has <br />never been taken in any quantity. Little is known about the life history of <br />this subspecies, and work should be undertaken as threats to the system could <br />lead to serious decline or extirpation. It is further recommended that this <br />subspecies be listed as threatened or of special concern. Field studies should <br />be initiated to assess current distribution and population status. <br />11.2. velifer: White River Speckled, Dace <br />The current status of the Pahranagat population is unknown at this time, <br />and field work is needed to assess population abundance and distribution. <br />The White River Valley populations are in reduced numbers from exotic fish <br />interactions and/or loss and modification of habitats. The MX missile <br />deployment in this valley poses serious threats to the continued existence <br />of the subspecies, and it is recommended that it be listed <br />as threatened or endangered. <br />R.o. yarrowi: Virgin River Speckled Dace <br />This subspecies is doing quite well in the Virgin River along its entire <br />length. However, the current threats to the Virgin River system could lead to <br />serious declines. No recommendations are made at this time. <br />R.o. ssp.: Meadow Valley Speckled Dace <br />There is very little known about the distribution or abundance of this <br />subspecies, and field work should be undertaken in order to assess its status. <br />No recommendations are made at this time.