Spring Cavefish

The Spring Cavefish (Forbesichthys agassizii) is one of six species in the family Amblyopsidae and only member of the genus Forbesichthys. This species is listed as state endangered in Missouri, but has been listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List as data deficient due to the lack of population studies. The spring cavefish inhabits caves, springs, spring runs, and spring seeps. It is subterranean, emerging at dusk and retreating underground an hour or two before dawn.

The plan for this particular species covers its geographic distribution, ecology, life history, current species management, and future management recommendations. For its geographic distribution, the species is located within areas of the central and southeastern United States. The spring cavefish stay underground after dawn, but then emerge into surface waters at dusk. They are a carnivorous fish and are well adapted to their environment. For life history, it is known that the species breeding behavior is rarely documented. Spawning occurs underground and in darkness between January and April. The status and distribution of cave-obligate species is incomplete or lacking entirely, which makes conservation and management decisions difficult. Kentucky and Missouri are the two main states that have their agencies managing this species in some way. There are many studies, management practices, and recommendations that are being done or could be done to help preserve and conserve this species for future generations.