MSc project – Monitoring of the efficiency of the artificial fish barrier

on the Mooi river (invasive control) and environmental performance of

the facility (South Africa)

MSc project available within the Aquatic Ecosystem Research Programme (AER) : the Aquatic Ecosystem Research Programme (AER) is an applied research programme of the University of KwaZulu-Natal in collaboration with the University of Mpumalanga and Rivers of Life in South Africa. The AER is dedicated to the development of inland scientific aquatic ecology research and capacity development through formal research outputs and student training. The existing Inchbrakie Falls on the Mooi River formed a natural barrier between the presence of Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) downstream of the falls and the presence of Trout (Salmo trutta) upstream of the falls. Given that the Inchbrakie Falls is now inundated due to the dam, the fish barrier is intended to mimic the effect of the falls in providing a barrier between the two fish species. The fish barrier is intended, therefore, to ensure that Smallmouth bass located in the downstream sections of the Mooi River do not find their way into the upstream sections where they would compete with trout for foraging and breeding habitats and nutrients available in the river. Bass are fiercely protective of their chosen habitats and would likely exclude trout from those areas once they are established. That competition would see the habitat of the trout diminished with resultant reductions in the number of trout in the upstream sections. The study will include the following components: • Evaluate the fish communities and population structures within the Springrove Dam and in its vicinity, • Evaluate the operation of the fish barrier and establish the efficiency of the structure in achieving the intended

purpose of preventing the migration of Smallmouth bass up the Mooi River, • Provide dam fisheries management and monitoring recommendations.

Requirements • B.Sc., Hons. degree in biology, ecology, environmental sciences, zoology or similar, • Willingness to conduct field work and participate on surveys with other Post-graduate students

within the research group, • Drivers license (experience driving 4x4s and towing trailers/boats would be an advantage) • Enthusiastic, punctual, hard-working and pro-active, • Skills in GIS and R would be an advantage. The project includes competitive bursaries and project operational costs. Applicants should submit a covering letter with motivation for a project, a CV, copies of their academic transcripts, and contact information for at least two references. Please apply to celine@riversoflife.co.za and matthew@riversolife.co.za and visit our website (www.riversoflife.co.za) for more information, International students are welcome to apply. Application closes 1 November 2019