Western silvery minnow (Hybognathus argyritis) COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 1

COSEWIC Assessment Summary

Assessment Summary – April 2008

Common name : Western silvery minnow

Scientific name : Hybognathus argyritis

Status : Endangered

Reason for designation : This small minnow species is restricted to the Milk River in Southern Alberta, a region characterized by drought conditions of increasing frequency and severity. While the future of flow regimes associated with the St. Mary’s diversion canal and proposed water storage projects are uncertain, consequences of these activities have the potential to significantly affect the survival of the species. Rescue effect from U.S. populations is not possible.

Occurrence : Ontario

Status history : Designated Special Concern in April 1997. Status re–examined and designated Threatened in November 2001. Status re–examined and designated Endangered in April 2008. Last assessment based on an update status report.

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