CR

Theliderma stapes

Unknown

Overview

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

The stirrupshell mussel faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and urban development in the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems. Dam construction has fragmented populations and altered flow regimes essential for reproduction, while sedimentation from erosion smothers the substrate where juveniles develop. Water quality deterioration from industrial pollution and municipal discharge has further compromised the species' ability to filter-feed effectively.

Threat summary

Habitat

Theliderma stapes inhabits medium to large rivers with stable gravel and sand substrates in the Tennessee and Cumberland river drainages. The species requires well-oxygenated waters with moderate to swift currents and depends on specific fish hosts for larval development.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in UNIONIDAE

VU

Brazzaea anceyi

Unknown
Lampsilis higginsiiEN

Lampsilis higginsii

Unknown
CR

Recovery Pearly Mussel

Elliptio nigella

Declining
EN

Triangle Pigtoe

Fusconaia lananensis

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Theliderma stapes classified as Critically Endangered?
Theliderma stapes is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. The stirrupshell mussel faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and urban development in the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems. Dam construction has fragmented populations and altered flow regimes essential for reproduction, while sedimentation from erosion smothers the substrate where juveniles develop. Water quality deterioration from industrial pollution and municipal discharge has further compromised the species' ability to filter-feed effectively.
Where does Theliderma stapes live?
Theliderma stapes occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Theliderma stapes?
The main threats to Theliderma stapes 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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