Earth Day 2015-Recognizing Endangered Species Project-Ozark Hellbender, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

Aquatic Life & Ecosystem

Project Name

Earth Day 2015-Recognizing Endangered Species Project-Ozark Hellbender, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

Project Description

The Ozark Hellbender, Cryptobranchus allegeniensis bishopi, is an endangered species that lives in Ozark streams located in southern Missouri and northern Arkansas. The Ozark Hellbender is strictly an aquatic animal relying on the water for most aspects of life from food to reproduction. This animal is endangered due to increased siltation, water quality degradation, and increased impoundments of their habitats. Because this species is found only in this small area, it is important save the Ozark Hellbender to preserve the biodiversity and genetic variations of the species. In an attempt to help save this species regulations on waste dumping, damming water ways, and human interaction in the habitat this could be very beneficial to its survival.

Body of Water

None selected

Project Owner

Joshua.sumperl