VU

Sphaerolana karenae

Unknown

Overview

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

Sphaerolana karenae faces significant threats from groundwater extraction and contamination in its limited cave habitat range. Urban development and agricultural activities above the cave systems pose risks through altered hydrology and chemical runoff that can degrade the delicate aquatic environments these isopods depend on. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits groundwater-fed cave pools and underground aquatic systems in limestone karst formations. It is endemic to specific cave networks where it occupies permanent water bodies with stable temperatures and low light conditions.

FRESHWATER· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Sphaerolana karenae classified as Vulnerable?
Sphaerolana karenae 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. Sphaerolana karenae faces significant threats from groundwater extraction and contamination in its limited cave habitat range. Urban development and agricultural activities above the cave systems pose risks through altered hydrology and chemical runoff that can degrade the delicate aquatic environments these isopods depend on. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes.
Where does Sphaerolana karenae live?
Sphaerolana karenae 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 Sphaerolana karenae?
The main threats to Sphaerolana karenae 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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