Supported by the Cave Conservancy of the Virginias and the Subterranean Ecology Institute, Inc.
Over 150 species of Stygobromus amphipods occur across temperate North America. This ecologically and geographically diverse genus can be found living in seeps, springs, and cave habitats, and, thus, serve as important indicators of groundwater quality. Forty-three species have been described from the Virginias, Maryland and District of Columbia, while another three species have been recorded from these states. We are conducting conservation assessments of each Stygobromus species in this region to identify and prioritize species and populations of greatest conservation concern, which includes ascertaining threats and factors associated with extinction risk. In addition, we are collecting specimens through our fieldwork to serve as morphological and molecular reference material for future systematic studies. We hope that this project helps promote awareness of imperiled subterranean crustaceans in the Virginias, including Stygobromus amphipods.
Number of localities by state