LAUSR

Abstract Fluctuating populations of native and non-native Pomacea spp. (apple snails) pose a particular concern to managers tasked with developing recovery plans for the endangered Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus (Everglades Snail Kite) in Florida because the snails are the primary food source for the kite. The data presented herein provide observational records and quantitative evaluation of Pomacea paludosa (Florida Apple Snail) and P. maculata (Island Apple Snail) occurrences in a variety of Florida aquatic ecosystems. Qualitative observations documented Florida Apple Snail and Island Apple Snail in water depths up to 14.6 m and 8.4 m, respectively. In 1 study location, 65% of all apple snail species were in depths greater than 0.75 m. This data suggests that in areas where apple snails appear to be rare or absent from shallow habitats (<1.0 m), surveys in deeper waters should also be conducted because apple snails may be found there.