Do You Know About These 4 Protected Endangered Fish Species?

The fresh and salt waters of the United States are home to a rich diversity of fish species, many of which play critical roles in our aquatic ecosystems. Unfortunately, protected endangered fish species are facing the challenges of habitat loss, pollution, overfishing, and climate change.

While endangered and threatened fish species have been granted protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, we still have a lot of work to do if we want to ensure their survival. The ESA makes it illegal to harm, capture, or trade any endangered species without proper permits, but we also need to do our part to protect the ecosystems and habitats where they live.

Learn more about what these endangered species need to survive is critical to conservation efforts. Check out four examples of protected endangered fish species and the action steps needed to save them.

Atlantic Sturgeon

One of the most well-known endangered anadromous (born in freshwater and then migrate to the sea and back again to freshwater to spawn) fish species in the U.S. is the Atlantic sturgeon. Historically abundant along the Canadian and U.S. Atlantic Coast from Labrador to Florida, this ancient species has suffered drastic fish population decline due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Protecting endangered fish species, such as the Atlantic Sturgeon, means working to conserve and restore their habitat as well as reducing bycatch in commercial fisheries.

Smalltooth Sawfish

Another prominent endangered species is the smalltooth sawfish, which is a unique-looking fish known for its long, toothed snout. Native to the coastal waters of Florida, the smalltooth sawfish population has plummeted due to habitat loss as well as accidental capture in fishing gear. Under ESA guidance, efforts focused on protecting critical fish habitat and restricting fishing practices that harm the sawfish have been implemented, giving hope for its recovery.

In fact, Florida Scientists with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission conduct ongoing research on smalltooth sawfish. As part of the research program, the Sawfish Survey asks anglers, boaters, and beach-goers to report any sawfish they catch or see in the water. Call (844) 4SAWFISH to make reports and to request information on the species.

Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon, particularly populations in the Pacific Northwest, are also on the endangered list. According to the National Wildlife Federation, Chinook are endangered in the Columbia River tributaries and California breeding sites and threatened in a range of rivers and streams throughout Oregon, Idaho, and Washington.

Chinook are a keystone species in the Pacific Northwest region, meaning they are a vital food source for wildlife, including bears, orcas, seals, and large birds of prey. Unfortunately, the overuse of water resources, habitat loss, blocked access to spawning grounds, overfishing, and increases in water temperatures have significantly impacted their populations. Conservation efforts for Chinook salmon include dam removal and habitat restoration to increase their numbers in the wild.

Devils Hole Pupfish

The Devils Hole pupfish is a critically endangered species that is unique to the United States. Found only in a single desert spring in Death Valley National Park (Nevada), this tiny fish (average length is 0.9 inches) has one of the smallest known habitats of any vertebrate. Due to the extreme fragility of its environment, the species faces significant risks from climate change and groundwater depletion. Strict environmental impact and protection measures are in place to preserve this rare fish, with scientists closely monitoring the fragile population.

Protecting Endangered Fish Species

These protected endangered fish species play a role in maintaining biodiversity and healthy aquatic ecosystems. Through sustained conservation efforts, habitat restoration, pollution reduction, and public awareness, it’s possible to reverse some of the damage done and help save these species for future generations.