VU

Leptocaris stromatolicolus

Unknown

Overview

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

Leptocaris stromatolicolus faces severe threats from coastal development and tourism infrastructure along its limited range in Western Australia. The species' dependence on specific stromatolite formations makes it extremely vulnerable to habitat modification, as these ancient microbial structures are easily damaged by human activities. Water quality degradation from urban runoff and recreational activities poses additional risks to the delicate ecosystem balance required for this endemic shrimp's survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic freshwater shrimp inhabits the unique stromatolite pools and associated freshwater systems of Shark Bay, Western Australia. The species is specifically adapted to the alkaline conditions and microbial communities found within these ancient living rock formations.

Threatened in Mexico

EN

Turbinicarpus horripilus

Declining
CR

Turbinicarpus mandragora

Declining
EN

Opuntia pachyrrhiza

Declining
EN

Arachnothryx tacanensis

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Leptocaris stromatolicolus classified as Vulnerable?
Leptocaris stromatolicolus 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. Leptocaris stromatolicolus faces severe threats from coastal development and tourism infrastructure along its limited range in Western Australia. The species' dependence on specific stromatolite formations makes it extremely vulnerable to habitat modification, as these ancient microbial structures are easily damaged by human activities. Water quality degradation from urban runoff and recreational activities poses additional risks to the delicate ecosystem balance required for this endemic shrimp's survival.
Where does Leptocaris stromatolicolus live?
Leptocaris stromatolicolus occurs in Mexico. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Leptocaris stromatolicolus?
The main threats to Leptocaris stromatolicolus 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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