Creaserinus gordoni: The Rare Camp Shelby Burrowing Crayfish
In the specialized ecosystems of Mississippi, there exists a unique crustacean known as Creaserinus gordoni. Commonly referred to as the Camp Shelby burrowing crayfish, this species is a member of the family Cambaridae. Unlike many of its relatives that roam open waterways, this crayfish is highly specialized for a burrowing lifestyle, making it a fascinating subject for biologists and conservationists alike.
Key Facts
- Scientific Name: Creaserinus gordoni
- Common Name: Camp Shelby burrowing crayfish
- Endemic Range: Restricted exclusively to Camp Shelby, Mississippi
- IUCN Status: Near Threatened (NT)
- NatureServe Status: Critically Imperiled
- Family: Cambaridae
Taxonomy and Classification
The Camp Shelby burrowing crayfish is classified under the order Decapoda, a group characterized by having ten legs. Its scientific lineage places it within the class Malacostraca and the suborder Pleocyemata. Originally described by Fitzpatrick in 1987, the species was previously known by the synonym Fallicambarus gordoni.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Arthropoda |
| Clade | Pancrustacea |
| Class | Malacostraca |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Family | Cambaridae |
| Genus | Creaserinus |
| Species | C. gordoni |
Distribution and Habitat
One of the most striking features of Creaserinus gordoni is its extremely limited geographic range. It is endemic—meaning it is found naturally in only one specific location—to Camp Shelby in Mississippi. This narrow distribution makes the species particularly vulnerable to environmental changes within that specific area.
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Conservation Status and Protection
Due to its restricted habitat, the Camp Shelby burrowing crayfish is a priority for conservation. The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) listed the species as Near Threatened during its 2010 review, noting that it may become threatened in the near future. Furthermore, NatureServe classifies the species as Critically Imperiled, indicating an even higher level of risk of extinction.
To mitigate these risks, the species is currently protected under a Candidate Conservation Agreement. This collaborative effort involves the Mississippi National Guard and The Nature Conservancy, ensuring that the land and water resources required for the crayfish's survival are managed sustainably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the common name of Creaserinus gordoni?
It is commonly known as the Camp Shelby burrowing crayfish.
Where can this species be found?
This crayfish is endemic to Camp Shelby in Mississippi, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world.
What is the conservation status of the Camp Shelby burrowing crayfish?
The IUCN classifies it as Near Threatened (as of 2010), while NatureServe considers it Critically Imperiled.
Who is involved in the protection of this species?
The species is protected through a Candidate Conservation Agreement between The Nature Conservancy and the Mississippi National Guard.
What is the scientific family of Creaserinus gordoni?
It belongs to the family Cambaridae.