Stygobromus araeus
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stygobromus_araeus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Stygobromus araeus faces significant threats from groundwater contamination and aquifer depletion due to agricultural runoff and urban development in its limited range. The species' obligate dependence on pristine groundwater systems makes it extremely vulnerable to pollution from pesticides, fertilizers, and industrial chemicals that can persist in aquifers for decades. Water table lowering from excessive pumping for irrigation and municipal use directly reduces available habitat, while climate change may alter groundwater recharge patterns in its already restricted distribution.
Habitat
This obligate groundwater amphipod inhabits pristine aquifers and underground water systems, typically found in limestone karst formations and alluvial deposits. The species requires stable, unpolluted groundwater with consistent temperature and chemistry, living in the interstitial spaces between sediments and in small groundwater pools.
Other threatened species in CRANGONYCTIDAE
Threatened in United States
Frequently asked questions
Why is Stygobromus araeus classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Stygobromus araeus live?
What are the main threats to Stygobromus araeus?
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