Elliptio chipolaensis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Chipola Slabshell faces severe threats from habitat degradation and water quality decline in the Chipola River system of Florida and Alabama. Dam construction and water diversions have altered natural flow regimes essential for reproduction, while agricultural runoff and urban development have increased sedimentation and nutrient pollution. The species' restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with declining water quality affecting both the mussels and their fish hosts required for larval development.
Habitat
The Chipola Slabshell inhabits sandy and muddy substrates in flowing waters of the Chipola River system in northwestern Florida and southeastern Alabama. This freshwater mussel requires clean, well-oxygenated water with stable flow patterns and depends on specific fish species as hosts for its larval stage.
Other threatened species in UNIONIDAE
Threatened in United States
Frequently asked questions
Why is Elliptio chipolaensis classified as Endangered?
Where does Elliptio chipolaensis live?
What are the main threats to Elliptio chipolaensis?
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