Pearl Dace
(Margariscus margarita)
Pearl Dace
In Montana,
pearl dace
occur only in
the Missouri and
Saskatchewan
River basins.
Most known localities
are in south-fl owing tributaries to the
Missouri River, downstream of the confl uence
of the Milk River. Pearl dace occur in
lakes, cool bog ponds, creeks, and springs.
Conservation concerns include: vulnerability
of populations to predation
and competition; collection
by anglers seeking bait
minnows; and anthropogenic
stressors that increase water
temperatures. Conservation
strategies include: reducing
stocking of non-native fi sh that compete or
prey on this species; educating anglers of
importance of native fi sh; and conserving
prairie streams to include better range
management practices.
