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<br />5) KAS genetic and morphological taxonomy (L. Stevens and P. Keim): This one-yr <br />project began in September 1998, and is designed to compare the morphology and <br />mitochondrial DNA among the various subspecies, species and genera of the landsnail <br />family, Succineidae, with emphasis on Oxyloma haydeni kanabensis. The results of this <br />project may clarify: (I) whether or not the Vaseys Paradise ambersnail population should <br />be considered to be 0. h. kanabensis; (2) whether the numerous described Alberta <br />(Canada) are, in fact, KAS; and (3) how genetically related southwestern KAS are to <br />southwestern NAS. Resolution of these taxonomic issues may provide sufficient new <br />information to stimulate the Service to revisit its policy concerning VP and KAS in <br />general. Genetic and morphological information is expected to be produced in the spring <br />of 1999, with a panel of experts convened to review that information by early summer <br />1999. This project has been delayed considerably by slow permitting by the Service. <br /> <br />6) KAS - NAU greenhouse and Glen Canyon Dam experiments (L. Stevens and P. <br />Price): In September 1998, 50 KAS each were stocked into nine 1.0 x 0.5 m terraria in <br />the spillway at the base of the dam as Phase III. This three-phase project was designed <br />to: (I) determine the effects of host plant variation on KAS growth and fecundity in the <br />NAU laboratory; (2) determine the potential for establishment ofKAS host plants in a <br />quasi-natural setting (Glen Canyon Dam); and (3) evaluate life history variables (winter <br />mortality, size-related survivorship, and host plant impacts on growth and fecundity) in a <br />quasi-natural field setting at Glen Canyon Dam. The results are intended to provide data <br />for a life history model ofKAS, as well as to learn more about second population <br />establishment in a controlled, quasi-natural setting. Thus far, the KAS have survived and <br />have begun reproducing in the terraria. As expected, survivorship is lower on <br />Nasturtium, but growth rates are higher there. <br /> <br />7) Kanab Ambersnail Work Group (KA WG) activities: The KA WG is a non- <br />affiliated, cooperating group of scientists and managers interested in issues surrounding <br />Oxyloma, and potentially other mollusks in the Southwest. This group has been meeting <br />on at least a quarterly basis for the past four years, and has developed information and <br />strategies that may be used by the various agencies responsible for managing KAS and <br />NAS. The minutes of each KA WG meeting are compiled and available to any interested <br />party. <br />