Lithasia armigera
VU

Lithasia armigera

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armigerous_river_snail

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Lithasia armigera faces severe population declines primarily due to dam construction and river channelization throughout its Tennessee River system range. Coal mining activities and agricultural runoff have degraded water quality in many tributaries, while invasive zebra mussels compete for resources and alter benthic habitats. The species' limited dispersal ability and specific habitat requirements make recovery particularly challenging as suitable river segments become increasingly fragmented.

Threat summary

Habitat

This freshwater gastropod inhabits rocky substrates in fast-flowing rivers and large streams within the Tennessee River drainage system. It requires well-oxygenated waters with stable cobble and boulder bottoms, typically found in riffles and runs of medium to large rivers.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in PLEUROCERIDAE

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Lithasia armigera classified as Vulnerable?
Lithasia armigera is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Lithasia armigera faces severe population declines primarily due to dam construction and river channelization throughout its Tennessee River system range. Coal mining activities and agricultural runoff have degraded water quality in many tributaries, while invasive zebra mussels compete for resources and alter benthic habitats. The species' limited dispersal ability and specific habitat requirements make recovery particularly challenging as suitable river segments become increasingly fragmented.
Where does Lithasia armigera live?
Lithasia armigera occurs in Canada, Cuba, Indonesia, Philippines, United States, and Vietnam. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Lithasia armigera?
The main threats to Lithasia armigera are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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