Branchinecta lynchi
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Branchinecta_lynchi
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Branchinecta lynchi faces severe habitat loss from urban development and agricultural conversion throughout California's Central Valley and coastal regions. The species' dependence on ephemeral pools makes it particularly vulnerable to hydrological changes from groundwater pumping, altered precipitation patterns, and pool destruction. Invasive plant species and non-native aquatic invertebrates further degrade remaining pool habitats, while climate change threatens to disrupt the precise seasonal flooding cycles essential for reproduction.
Habitat
Branchinecta lynchi inhabits seasonal vernal pools and ephemeral wetlands in California's grasslands, oak woodlands, and coastal prairie ecosystems. These temporary pools fill with winter rains and gradually dry through spring and summer, creating the specific hydroperiod conditions required for the species' life cycle.
Other threatened species in BRANCHINECTIDAE
Threatened in United States
Frequently asked questions
Why is Branchinecta lynchi classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Branchinecta lynchi live?
What are the main threats to Branchinecta lynchi?
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