VU

Caecidotea nickajackensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Caecidotea nickajackensis faces severe threats from water pollution and habitat degradation in its limited cave and groundwater systems. Dam construction and water diversions have altered natural hydrological patterns, while agricultural runoff and urban development introduce contaminants that can devastate these sensitive subterranean ecosystems. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to any environmental changes in its cave habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This aquatic isopod is endemic to cave systems and associated groundwater habitats in the Tennessee River valley region. It inhabits the dark, stable waters of limestone caves and connected underground aquifers where temperatures remain constant year-round.

FRESHWATER· major

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VU

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Unknown
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Unknown
EN

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Unknown

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VU

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Caecidotea nickajackensis classified as Vulnerable?
Caecidotea nickajackensis 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. Caecidotea nickajackensis faces severe threats from water pollution and habitat degradation in its limited cave and groundwater systems. Dam construction and water diversions have altered natural hydrological patterns, while agricultural runoff and urban development introduce contaminants that can devastate these sensitive subterranean ecosystems. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to any environmental changes in its cave habitat.
Where does Caecidotea nickajackensis live?
Caecidotea nickajackensis 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 Caecidotea nickajackensis?
The main threats to Caecidotea nickajackensis 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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