| Abstract |
The little-wing pearly mussel (Peciias fabula) was listed as an endangered species without critical habitat on November 14, 1988 (53 FR 45861). This Cumberlandian species probably inhabited many of the moderately high gradient, small to medium tributaries of the Tennessee and Cumberland River systems in Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia. Historical records exist for 24 stream reaches in these States, but the species is presently known from only six streams (three in Kentucky, one in Tennessee, and two in Virginia). The mussels range has been reduced, primarily due to coal mining and gas and oil development in the upper Cumberland and Powell River basins. Additional impacts include reservoir construction, poor land use practices, and urbanization which have caused excessive siltation and pollution throughout the species range. |
