CR

Dendrocephalus lithaca

Unknown

Overview

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

Dendrocephalus lithaca faces severe threats from habitat destruction as temporary pools and seasonal wetlands are drained for agricultural development and urban expansion. The species' dependence on ephemeral water bodies makes it extremely vulnerable to altered hydrology from water diversions and climate-driven changes in precipitation patterns. Pollution from agricultural runoff and invasive species introductions further degrade the limited remaining habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This fairy shrimp inhabits temporary pools, seasonal wetlands, and ephemeral water bodies that fill during rainy periods and dry completely during drought cycles. The species requires these specialized aquatic habitats with specific salinity and temperature conditions for successful reproduction and development.

Other threatened species in THAMNOCEPHALIDAE

VU

Branchinella denticulata

Unknown
VU

Branchinella wellardi

Unknown
VU

Branchinella simplex

Unknown
VU

Branchinella apophysata

Unknown

Threatened in United States

Calidris ferrugineaVU

Calidris ferruginea

Declining
VU

Paddlefish

Polyodon spathula

Unknown
EN

Polystachya longiscapa

Unknown
VU

Actinopyga miliaris

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Dendrocephalus lithaca classified as Critically Endangered?
Dendrocephalus lithaca is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Dendrocephalus lithaca faces severe threats from habitat destruction as temporary pools and seasonal wetlands are drained for agricultural development and urban expansion. The species' dependence on ephemeral water bodies makes it extremely vulnerable to altered hydrology from water diversions and climate-driven changes in precipitation patterns. Pollution from agricultural runoff and invasive species introductions further degrade the limited remaining habitat.
Where does Dendrocephalus lithaca live?
Dendrocephalus lithaca occurs in United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Dendrocephalus lithaca?
The main threats to Dendrocephalus lithaca 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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