Summary

Description

A total of 55 invertebrate samples were collected from July 1, 1974 to June 30, 1975. Two samples were toxic out of five analyzed. The four year contract for botulism research ended June 30, 1974 so collection of invertebrates on the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge was limited to two trappings. The trapping resulted in collection of 50 samples kept for analysis. Approximately 25,000 birds died from botulism in California from July 1974June 1975. The purpose of this research project was to gain a better understanding of the life cycle of Clostridium botulinum type C as it pertains to waterfowl mortalities. Since current research has indicated invertebrates may play a significant role in botulism outbreaks invertebrates were collected from the Lower Klamath NWR and kept for testing for the presence of spores and toxin. Improved management and mortality control techniques were the ultimate goals of the project.