Status of Listed Species and Recovery Plan Development
Socorro Isopod
Thermosphaeroma thermophilus -- Endangered
New Mexico
Current Status:
Threats to the Socorro isopod include vandalism of its extremely limited habitat in Sedillo Spring, any activity that alters the thermal spring or reduces its flow, and any activity that alters either the physical or chemical quality of the spring water. A private landowner is interested in using his share of the spring flow to provide water to construct a housing development.
Achievements:
The Socorro isopod has responded to recovery actions including the construction and maintenance of a refugium, restocking after destruction of the historic population in Sedillo Spring, and captive propagation efforts. In 1989, a refugium consisting of eight concrete tanks was constructed next to the municipal water treatment facility in the city of Socorro. The city supplies water for the refugium. An 8-foot cyclone fence topped by barbed wire encloses the facility and provides protection from vandalism. Isopods placed in the refugium tanks have reproduced and are thriving.
Current Recovery Needs:
The only naturally occurring population of the Socorro isopod is found in a privately owned part of Sedillo Spring. To ensure the species' survival, it will be necessary to guarantee a continuous flow of water to the habitat.
Section 6 Funding and Activities:
Section 6 funds ($6,000 in FY 1989) were provided to the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to construct a refugium at Sedillo Spring. In FY 1991, $2,000 was provided to initiate and defray
costs of operation for the refugium.
Partnerships
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish: In monitoring the status of Socorro isopods, the Department has found that populations within the refugium have flourished and the population at Sedillo Spring is stable.
Recovery Plan Status:
Plan approved 2/16/82.
