VU

Diplodon expansus

Unknown

Overview

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

Diplodon expansus faces severe pressure from water pollution and sedimentation in South American river systems, particularly from agricultural runoff and urban development. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have altered natural flow regimes essential for this freshwater mussel's reproductive cycle. Mining activities upstream contribute heavy metals and sediments that degrade water quality in the species' remaining habitat areas.

Threat summary

Habitat

This freshwater mussel inhabits sandy and muddy substrates of rivers and streams across parts of South America, particularly in the Paraná and Uruguay river basins. It requires well-oxygenated waters with moderate flow rates and depends on specific fish hosts for larval development.

Other threatened species in HYRIIDAE

VU

Diplodon pfeifferi

Unknown
EN

Diplodon dunkerianus

Unknown
EN

Diplodon fontaineanus

Unknown
CR

Hyridella glenelgensis

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Diplodon expansus classified as Vulnerable?
Diplodon expansus 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. Diplodon expansus faces severe pressure from water pollution and sedimentation in South American river systems, particularly from agricultural runoff and urban development. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have altered natural flow regimes essential for this freshwater mussel's reproductive cycle. Mining activities upstream contribute heavy metals and sediments that degrade water quality in the species' remaining habitat areas.
Where does Diplodon expansus live?
Diplodon expansus occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Diplodon expansus?
The main threats to Diplodon expansus 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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