Disclaimer:

The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: Relict Dace

Synonyms and Other Names: Steptoe dace

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Sigler and Sigler (1987); Page and Burr (1991). Maximum size: 13 cm.

Native Range: Lakes Franklin, Gale, Waring, Steptoe and Spring basins in eastern Nevada (Page and Burr 1991).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Native range data for this species provided in part by NatureServe

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Means of Introduction: The Shoshone Ponds population was intentionally introduced for conservation purposes with stock transplanted from ponds in Steptoe Valley, Nevada. The plant created an additional population of a rare species with a restricted range. The introduction of this species into Spring Valley, Nevada, may have been for mosquito control, or possibly as a curiosity (Hubbs et al. 1974). In 1942, a rancher testified that he had taken this minnow from Butte Valley to Lake Mead, where the fish was used as bait (Hubbs et al. 1974); however, we are unaware of any records of this species in Lake Mead.

Status: Locally established. The Relict Dace population at Shoshone Ponds had increased to an estimated 502 individuals by August 1989 (Clemmer, personal communication). The status of this species in other sites where introduced is unknown.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Prior to elimination of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service candidate species list, the Relict Dace was under review for Federal listing as an endangered or threatened species (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1994a).

Other Resources:

Author: Nico, L.

Peer Review Date: 9/28/1999

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.