Conservation
The number of cavesnails has significantly decreased over the past few decades, from an estimated 15,118 in 1973, to the point where only one individual was found within the survey areas during January 11, 2001 and April 22, 2003. A small population containing approximately 40 individuals does exist however in a small area upstream from the part of the creek that is regularly surveyed. Based on the decline of the Tumbling Creek cavesnail, it is listed as endangered at United States Fish and Wildlife Service list of endangered species since August 14, 2002.
Although the primary limiting factor of the population appears to be decreased water quality, due to increased erosion and water pollution in the cave’s recharge area, scientific research is needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Read more about this topic: Tumbling Creek Cavesnail
Famous quotes containing the word conservation:
“The putting into force of laws which shall secure the conservation of our resources, as far as they may be within the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, including the more important work of saving and restoring our forests and the great improvement of waterways, are all proper government functions which must involve large expenditure if properly performed.”
—William Howard Taft (1857–1930)
“A country grows in history not only because of the heroism of its troops on the field of battle, it grows also when it turns to justice and to right for the conservation of its interests.”
—Aristide Briand (1862–1932)