Climate vulnerability
Sensitivity to climate change
Moderate
Although little information regarding the sensitivity of lake chub to climate change is available for Washington, analyses from other regions (e.g., Wyoming, South Dakota, Colorado) indicate that this species may be vulnerable to changes in water temperature, water levels, and turbidity. Lake chub occupy cool, clear water, spawn in stream or lake margins, and are obligatory sight feeders. Water temperatures affect developmental rates and likely influence spawning timing. Shifting flow regimes (including low flows and flood frequency/magnitudes), drought conditions, and warming temperatures could affect rearing success and adult survival, particularly for fragmented or isolated populations. In addition, sedimentation post-wildfire could affect water turbidity and affect foraging success.
Exposure to climate change
Moderate
- Increased water temperatures
- Altered flow regimes
- Increased sedimentation