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Current Status:

The greatest threat to this species is habitat modification due to activities within cave recharge zones that contribute to water pollution. Increased poultry production may inject large amounts of organics and chemicals into some caves. Highway and airport construction within recharge areas may also adversely affect cavefish habitat.

Achievements:

Several new populations of Ozark cavefish have been discovered and protected in Benton County, Arkansas, since this species was listed in 1984. Recharge areas have been determined for some caves, enabling enhanced protection of the aquatic system. An ongoing mark and recapture study by students from the Arkansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Arkansas has demonstrated that the population within Logan Cave in Benton County is substantially larger than previous surveys have indicated.

Current Recovery Needs:

This species will need continued population monitoring, and recharge areas for nine caves it inhabits will need protection to attain recovery.

Partnerships

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission: This State agency owns and protects the entrance to Beaver Lake Nursery Pond Cave in Benton County.

Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission: The Natural Heritage Commission owns the entrance to Cave Springs Cave in Benton County and restricts entry.

Recovery Plan Status:

Original plan approved 12/17/86; revised 11/14/89.