VU

Hesperodiaptomus californiensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Hesperodiaptomus californiensis faces severe threats from habitat degradation and water diversions that alter the natural hydrology of its vernal pool ecosystems. Urban development and agricultural conversion have eliminated many of the seasonal wetlands this copepod depends upon for reproduction and survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering precipitation patterns that are critical for maintaining the ephemeral nature of vernal pools.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic copepod inhabits seasonal vernal pools and ephemeral wetlands in California's Central Valley and surrounding foothills. These temporary water bodies fill during winter rains and gradually dry throughout spring and summer, creating unique conditions essential for the species' life cycle.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in DIAPTOMIDAE

VU

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Unknown
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Paradiaptomus natalensis

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VU

Arctodiaptomus euacanthus

Unknown

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VU

Lepiota echinella

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VU

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EN

Lyophyllum deliberatum

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Hesperodiaptomus californiensis classified as Vulnerable?
Hesperodiaptomus californiensis 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. Hesperodiaptomus californiensis faces severe threats from habitat degradation and water diversions that alter the natural hydrology of its vernal pool ecosystems. Urban development and agricultural conversion have eliminated many of the seasonal wetlands this copepod depends upon for reproduction and survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering precipitation patterns that are critical for maintaining the ephemeral nature of vernal pools.
Where does Hesperodiaptomus californiensis live?
Hesperodiaptomus californiensis 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 Hesperodiaptomus californiensis?
The main threats to Hesperodiaptomus californiensis 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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