Northern Redbelly Dace

Synopsis: Northern Redbelly Dace are a glacial-relict species in our region, meaning their distribution is a direct result of Ice Age glaciation. Many glacial-relicts are highly vulnerable to climate change, and Northern Redbelly Dace are no exception. The species prefers cool, slow waters across the northern prairie and island mountain ranges. Expanding invasive species, especially Northern Pike, can decimate dace populations. Our follow-up study corroborated their predicted vulnerability, finding declines of 53%.

Other Resources:

• Montana Field Guide

• Vulnerability to Northern Pike invasion paper (Allison Stringer, MSU)

• MTAFS Status paper (Allison Stringer and Niall Clancy)