Shortjaw mudsucker
Gillichthys seta
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Shortjaw mudsucker faces severe habitat degradation from urban development and industrial activities along Southern California's coastal wetlands. Water diversions and altered freshwater flows have disrupted the salinity gradients essential for this species' survival in estuarine environments. Pollution from agricultural runoff and urban stormwater has further compromised water quality in the shallow mudflats and salt marshes where this endemic fish breeds and feeds.
Habitat
The Shortjaw mudsucker inhabits shallow estuarine waters, salt marshes, and mudflats along the Southern California coast, particularly in areas where freshwater streams meet tidal zones. This species requires specific salinity gradients and soft sediment substrates for foraging on small invertebrates and organic matter.
Other threatened species in Gobiidae
Threatened in Mexico
Frequently asked questions
Why is Shortjaw mudsucker classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Shortjaw mudsucker live?
What are the main threats to Shortjaw mudsucker?
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