How did the Service make its decision on whether to list the amphipod as endangered?
Under the Endangered Species Act, the Service must decide whether or not to list the amphipod based on the best scientific information available. The Service examines the species’ status in relation to five factos outlined under the Act which help determine whether a species is endangered or threatened. They include loss or alteration of habitat; overuse for commercial, scientific or other purposes; disease or predation; inadequacy of existing laws or regulations; and other natural and manmade factors that could affect the species’ existence. After analyzing available data, and gathering additional infromation through a public comment period, the Service determined that the amphipod is declining due to alteration of its habitat. Specifically, the water systems in the caves where the amphipod is found are experiencing a decline in water quality to the extent that the amphipod is likely to become extinct in the foreseeable future. Why is it important to protect tiny, little-known creatur
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