Duane Chapman is a Fish Biologist at the Columbia Environmental Research Center.
From 2002 - 2021, Duane led a team have focused on the biology and control of bighead, silver, black, and grass carps and other invasive aquatic species. He is now working part time, completing writing projects, mentoring, and assisting in risk assessments and other partner collaborations. His research and that of his team has focused on improvement of capture, harvest, and early detection methodologies, use of eDNA to estimate abundance and detect spawning, the use of early life history and spawning behavior of carp for the development of control techniques, and risk assessments. His research is global in focus, and integrates information and research from around the world to address invasive species problems in the United States. As he moves toward anticipated full retirement in 2024, the team he led is now guided by Dr. Jesse Fischer.
Professional Experience
1996-present Research Fish Biologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Science Center, Columbia, MO
1993-1996 Research Fisheries Biologist, National Biological Survey/Service, Corpus Christi, TX and Columbia, MO
1988-1993 Fish Biologist, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Corpus Christi, TX
1985-1988 Fish Biologist, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Lakewood, CO.
Education and Certifications
M.S. Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, 1985
B.S. Fish and Wildlife Biology, Fisheries emphasis, Iowa State University, 1980
Affiliations and Memberships*
2006-2022: Chair, Mississippi River Basin Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species, Research and Risk Assessment Committee
1980- present: American Fisheries Society
Science and Products
Black Carp Biology, Assessment, and Control
Early Life History of Bighead, Silver, Black, and Grass Carps
Invasive Carp Species Section
Tracking radio-tagged Asian Carp with Unmanned Aircraft System
Grass Carp detections via stationary receivers and manual tracking on Truman Reservoir, MO, January 2017 to October 2019
Capture method, habitat, length, and diet items consumed by wild-caught black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) in the Mississippi River Basin, 2017-2019
Survival of grass carp and black carp gavaged with an oral dose of antimycin A in two carriers, corn oil and ethanol
Microchemistry demographics and development data from wild caught black carp in the Mississippi River basin, 2011-18
Water quality, habitat, sampling methods and characteristics for grass carp in Truman Reservoir Missouri, 2017-2019
Starved Rock navigation lock fish clearing hydroacoustic data, Illinois River (2020)
Invasive carp movement rates among five herding techniques using adaptive resolution imaging sonar on the Lower Perche Creek, Columbia, MO
Swimming speeds of grass carp in response to turbulence
Asian carp eDNA and egg morphology data collected from Truman Reservoir tributaries, Missouri, USA, 2014
Survival and hydrodynamic behavior of grass carp eggs and larvae in relation to turbulence and in-stream obstructions
Diet items consumed by wild-caught black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) in the U.S.
Black carp and grass carp morphometric measurements
U.S. Geological Survey invasive carp strategic framework, 2023–27
Grass carp reproduction in small tributaries of Truman Reservoir, Missouri: Implications for establishment in novel habitats
An assessment of fish herding techniques: Management implications for mass removal and control of silver carp
Ingested toxicity of antimycin A to grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella and black carp Mylopharyngodon piceus in two carriers
Evaluations of Lagrangian egg drift models: From a laboratory flume to large channelized rivers
Establishment of invasive Black Carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) in the Mississippi River basin: Identifying sources and year classes contributing to recruitment
Winter habitat selection and efficacy of telemetry to aid Grass Carp removal efforts in a large reservoir
Identifying turbulence features hindering swimming capabilities of grass carp larvae (Ctenopharyngodon idella) through submerged vegetation
Emerging control strategies for integrated pest management of invasive carps
Invasive black carp as a reservoir host for the freshwater mollusk parasite Aspidogaster conchicola: Further evidence of mollusk consumption and implications for parasite dispersal
Decision analysis of barrier placement and targeted removal to control invasive carp in the Tennessee River Basin
Using turbulence to identify preferential areas for grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) larvae in streams: A laboratory study
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
Science and Products
- Science
Black Carp Biology, Assessment, and Control
Black Carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) is the largest of the four non-indigenous carp species, reaching sizes well in excess of 100 pounds. CERC scientists, in cooperation with federal and state partners, are studying the biology, ecology, and behavior of black carp and developing tools to monitor, assess, and control this non-indigenous species.Early Life History of Bighead, Silver, Black, and Grass Carps
Grass, bighead, black, and silver carps spawn in turbulent rivers and their eggs develop and hatch while drifting downriver. The larvae also have a short period of developing in the drift, and then they must swim from the river and find appropriate low- or no-flow nursery areas. Rivers which are not long enough, turbulent enough, or without nursery areas in the correct locations are not likely to...Invasive Carp Species Section
Bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) and the closely related silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) (together, the bigheaded carps) and black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) are rapidly expanding in numbers and distribution in the Mississippi and Missouri River basins.Tracking radio-tagged Asian Carp with Unmanned Aircraft System
The ability to track fish such as invasive Asian carp is critical in characterizing their habitat, use and movement, spawning locations, feeding habitats, overwinter refugia, and general movement patterns. We anticipate that a UAS-based approach for tracking fish that are radio-tagged will prove effective and used widely. - Data
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Grass Carp detections via stationary receivers and manual tracking on Truman Reservoir, MO, January 2017 to October 2019
Diploid and triploid Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella) tagged with acoustic transmitters were observed in Truman Reservoir, Missouri from January 2017 to October 2019 to determine longitudinal movements potentially associated with spawning. Passive acoustic receivers were deployed throughout the reservoir and its tributaries to monitor fish movements as they traversed up and downstream. This daCapture method, habitat, length, and diet items consumed by wild-caught black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) in the Mississippi River Basin, 2017-2019
An inventory (enumeration and taxonomic identification) of diet items consumed by wild-caught black carp, based on the examination of gut contents from fish that were collected in the lower Mississippi River drainage of the U.S.Survival of grass carp and black carp gavaged with an oral dose of antimycin A in two carriers, corn oil and ethanol
The data consists of survival, length and weight of grass carp and black carp gavaged with an oral dose of antimycin A in two carriers, corn oil and ethanol.Microchemistry demographics and development data from wild caught black carp in the Mississippi River basin, 2011-18
Data consists of ploidy, otolith stable isotope analysis and microchemistry, age, weight, sex, length and geolocation data from wild caught black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) captured in the Mississippi River basin from 2011 through 2018.Water quality, habitat, sampling methods and characteristics for grass carp in Truman Reservoir Missouri, 2017-2019
Diploid and triploid Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon Idella) tagged with acoustic transmitters were observed in Truman Reservoir, Missouri from February 2017 to March 2019 to determine habitat usage in winter. Habitat parameters were measured at used and available sites to model habitat preference. In addition, tagged fish were targeted during removal attempts to determine the efficacy of using taggeStarved Rock navigation lock fish clearing hydroacoustic data, Illinois River (2020)
These datasets (e.g., 'Starved Rock fish clearing_multi-beam imaging sonar fish data_Pre-clearing_Sonar-s1.csv') include exported information (e.g., fish detection counts) from processed fixed-location multi-beam imaging sonar and mobile side-scan sonar data. Fish abundance in the navigation lock was determined using mobile side-scan surveys, while multi-beam imaging sonars were used to determineInvasive carp movement rates among five herding techniques using adaptive resolution imaging sonar on the Lower Perche Creek, Columbia, MO
Data represent a comparison of herding techniques commonly used by natural resource agencies and the public to increase removal or harvest of invasive carp (i.e., Silver Carp) from U.S. waterways. Sites on lower Perche Creek, Columbia, MO (2018 August 9th to 2018 October 26th) were contained using block nets and treated with one of five herding techniques: (1) method commonly used by commercial fiSwimming speeds of grass carp in response to turbulence
In this experimental series we studied the swimming capabilities and response of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) larvae to flow turbulence in a laboratory flume. We compared three different experimental configurations, representing in-stream obstructions commonly found in natural streams (e.g. a gravel bump, a single vertical cylinder, and patches of submerged rigid vegetation). Grass carp laAsian carp eDNA and egg morphology data collected from Truman Reservoir tributaries, Missouri, USA, 2014
Ichthyoplankton tows samples collected from Truman reservoir tributaries evaluated for eDNA. Data also includes hydrologic and water quality parameters and morphology of grass carp eggs.Survival and hydrodynamic behavior of grass carp eggs and larvae in relation to turbulence and in-stream obstructions
Data collected from a comprehensive set of hydrodynamic experiments conducted with live grass carp eggs and larvae, to evaluate drifting and swimming patterns with 3 different in-stream obstructions: (1) a gravel bump, (2) a single cylinder, and (3) submerged vegetation. The hydrodynamic behavior of eggs and larvae with each obstruction was continuously monitored for about 85 consecutive hours. TrDiet items consumed by wild-caught black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) in the U.S.
An inventory (enumeration and taxonomic identification) of diet items consumed by wild-caught black carp, based on the examination of gut contents from fish that were collected in the lower Mississippi River drainage of the U.S.Black carp and grass carp morphometric measurements
Black carp Mylopharyngodon piceus and grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella are morphologically similar species imported from eastern Asia to North America as biological control organisms. Preferred identification methods are coloration and pharyngeal tooth form. Grass carp possess serrated teeth and black carp molariform teeth. Examination of pharyngeal teeth causes extensive damage to a specimen, - Publications
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U.S. Geological Survey invasive carp strategic framework, 2023–27
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) research has supported management of Hypophthalmichthys nobilis (bighead carp), Mylopharyngodon piceus (black carp), Ctenopharyngodon idella (grass carp), and H. molitrix (silver carp), hereafter referred to collectively as invasive carps, for over a decade. This strategic framework identifies thematic research areas to guide funding decisions for USGS invasive carp rAuthorsDuane Chapman, Jon Amberg, Robin Calfee, Enrika Hlavacek, Jon Hortness, P. Ryan Jackson, David C. Kazyak, Brent Knights, James RobertsGrass carp reproduction in small tributaries of Truman Reservoir, Missouri: Implications for establishment in novel habitats
Substantial work has been conducted to estimate the river length required for recruitment of invasive Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella and bigheaded carps (Bighead Carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis and Silver Carp H. molitrix); however, the distance upstream and size of stream required for spawning remain unclear. Adult Grass Carp are regularly captured in Harry S. Truman Reservoir, Missouri, althAuthorsCari-Ann Hayer, Michael F. Bayless, Catherine A. Richter, Amy E. George, Duane ChapmanAn assessment of fish herding techniques: Management implications for mass removal and control of silver carp
We assessed the effectiveness of herding techniques on adult Silver Carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix in a tributary to the Missouri River. Sites (600 m) were contained using block nets and treated with one of five herding techniques: (1) a method commonly used by commercial fishers in the United States (commercial technique), (2) pulsed-DC electrofishing (electric technique), (3) broadband sound aAuthorsJosey Lee Ridgway, Katelyn M. Lawson, Stephen August Shier, Robin Calfee, Duane ChapmanIngested toxicity of antimycin A to grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella and black carp Mylopharyngodon piceus in two carriers
Toxic baits are a potential control mechanism for nuisance carps, but rotenone-based baits for grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella have been ineffective. Failures have been attributed to the palatability of rotenone because innocuous training pellets are readily consumed prior to provision of piscicide baits. Several studies suggest antimycin A, a common alternative piscicide, typically applied dirAuthorsPatrick Kroboth, Duane Chapman, Jeffery A. Steevens, Curtis G. ByrdEvaluations of Lagrangian egg drift models: From a laboratory flume to large channelized rivers
To help better interpret computational models in predicting drift of carp eggs in rivers, we present a series of model assessments for the longitudinal egg dispersion. Two three-dimensional Lagrangian particle tracking models, SDrift and FluEgg, are evaluated in a series of channels with increasing complexity. The model evaluation demonstrates that both models are able to accommodate channel complAuthorsGeng Li, Caroline M. Elliott, Bruce Call, Duane Chapman, Robert B. Jacobson, Binbin WangEstablishment of invasive Black Carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) in the Mississippi River basin: Identifying sources and year classes contributing to recruitment
Black Carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) was imported to the USA to control aquaculture pond snails. This species has escaped captivity and occurs in parts of the Mississippi River, several tributaries, and floodplain lakes, which is concerning due to potential competition with native fishes and predation on native mussels, many of which are imperiled. However, Black Carp captures have primarily been iAuthorsGregory W. Whitledge, Patrick T. Kroboth, Duane Chapman, Quinton E. Phelps, Wesley Sleeper, Jennifer Bailey, Jill JenkinsWinter habitat selection and efficacy of telemetry to aid Grass Carp removal efforts in a large reservoir
Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella were introduced in North America to control aquatic vegetation in small, closed systems. However, when they escape into larger systems in which they can reproduce, they have the potential to cause significant declines and alterations in aquatic vegetation communities. These alterations can in turn affect native species that are dependent on aquatic vegetation. InAuthorsTyler Michael Hessler, Duane Chapman, Craig Paukert, Jeff C. Jolley, Michael E. ByrneIdentifying turbulence features hindering swimming capabilities of grass carp larvae (Ctenopharyngodon idella) through submerged vegetation
Aquatic vegetation can provide habitat and refuge for a variety of species in streams. However, the flow features generated by submerged patches of vegetation can also pose a challenge for fish larvae. We conducted a series of experiments with live grass carp larvae (starting ∼50 h post hatch) in a laboratory racetrack flume, using a submerged array of rigid cylinders to mimic vegetation. We usedAuthorsRafael O. Tinoco, Andres F. Prada, Amy E. George, Benjamin H. Stahlschmidt, P. Ryan Jackson, Duane ChapmanEmerging control strategies for integrated pest management of invasive carps
Invasive carps are ecologically and economically problematic fish species in many large river basins in the United States and pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems throughout much of North America. Four species of invasive carps: black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis), are partAuthorsAaron R. Cupp, Marybeth K. Brey, Robin Calfee, Duane Chapman, Richard A. Erickson, Jesse Robert Fischer, Andrea K. Fritts, Amy E. George, P. Ryan Jackson, Brent C. Knights, Gavin Nicholas Saari, Patrick KočovskýInvasive black carp as a reservoir host for the freshwater mollusk parasite Aspidogaster conchicola: Further evidence of mollusk consumption and implications for parasite dispersal
Black Carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus) has invaded the Mississippi River and is a potential threat to native mollusks. During prior diet research, we discovered that the fluke Aspidogaster conchicola, a mollusk parasite, occurs regularly in the gastrointestinal tract of Black Carp. The fluke remains in fish intestines for extended periods after the fish has consumed its host. Flukes were found in 33%AuthorsBarry C. Poulton, Jennifer Bailey, Patrick Kroboth, Amy E. George, Duane ChapmanDecision analysis of barrier placement and targeted removal to control invasive carp in the Tennessee River Basin
Controlling range expansion of invasive carp (specifically Hypophthalmichthys spp.) on the Tennessee River is important to conserve the ecological and economic benefits provided by the river. We collaborated with State and Federal agencies (the stakeholder group) to develop a decision framework and decision support model to evaluate strategies to control carp expansion in the Tennessee River. UsinAuthorsMax Post van der Burg, David R. Smith, Aaron R. Cupp, Mark W. Rogers, Duane ChapmanUsing turbulence to identify preferential areas for grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) larvae in streams: A laboratory study
In this experimental series, we studied the swimming capabilities and response of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) larvae to flow turbulence in a laboratory flume. We compared three different experimental configurations, representing in‐stream obstructions commonly found in natural streams (e.g., a gravel bump, a single vertical cylinder, and patches of submerged rigid vegetation). Grass carpAuthorsAndres F. Prada, Amy E. George, Benjamin H. Stahlschmidt, P. Ryan Jackson, Duane Chapman, Rafael O. TinocoNon-USGS Publications**
Chapman, D.C., Hubert, W.A., and Jackson, U.T., 1987, Phosphorus retention by grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) fed sago pondweed (Potamogeton pectinatus): Aquaculture, v. 65, no. 3-4, p. 221-225. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0044-8486(87)90234-1.**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
- News
*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government