CR

Theliderma tuberosa

Unknown

Overview

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

Theliderma tuberosa faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat degradation from dam construction and river channelization throughout its range in the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems. Water quality deterioration from agricultural runoff and urban development has further compromised the stable, well-oxygenated substrates this species requires. The mussel's dependence on specific fish hosts for larval development makes it particularly vulnerable to declining fish populations caused by habitat fragmentation.

Threat summary

Habitat

Theliderma tuberosa inhabits medium to large rivers with stable gravel and sand substrates, typically in areas with moderate to swift current flow. The species requires well-oxygenated water and is found buried in sediments of riffle and run habitats in the Tennessee and Cumberland river drainages.

Other threatened species in UNIONIDAE

Lampsilis virescensCR

Lampsilis virescens

Unknown
VU

Brazzaea anceyi

Unknown
EN

Unio delphinus

Declining
EN

Potomida littoralis

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Theliderma tuberosa classified as Critically Endangered?
Theliderma tuberosa 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. Theliderma tuberosa faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat degradation from dam construction and river channelization throughout its range in the Tennessee and Cumberland river systems. Water quality deterioration from agricultural runoff and urban development has further compromised the stable, well-oxygenated substrates this species requires. The mussel's dependence on specific fish hosts for larval development makes it particularly vulnerable to declining fish populations caused by habitat fragmentation.
Where does Theliderma tuberosa live?
Theliderma tuberosa 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 tuberosa?
The main threats to Theliderma tuberosa 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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