Biological invasions by nonnative species are not uncommon and the effects that these species have on native species is an area of investigation and concern. Locally, in the southwestern states of Utah and Nevada only one native species of turtle exists, the desert tortoise. However, several invasive species of aquatic turtles have been introduced. Consequently, we sought to understand how non-native species of turtles, including the spiny softshell turtle (Apalone spinifera) may be impacting the native piscifauna - especially the endangered species Gila seminuda whose distribution is limited to the Virgin River. Through dietary analyses of captured turtle specimens we are gaining a better understanding of the feeding habits of Apalone spinifera, in this system, which may help determine if management action is necessary to remove these turtles from these historically turtle-free river systems.
