Banff Springs snail (Physella johnsoni) COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 1

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COSEWIC
Assessment Summary

Assessment Summary – April 2008

Common name:
Banff Springs Snail

Scientific name:
Physella Johnsoni

Status:
Endangered

Reason for designation:
This is a Canadian endemic species with its distribution entirely within the upper reaches of fewer than 5 separate thermal springs in Banff National Park, Alberta. These springs comprise a single population, which makes it very susceptible to a catastrophic event. These short-lived animals undergo natural annual fluctuations of over two orders of magnitude. All thermal springs historically or currently occupied by this species have been impacted by human development. These snails are habitat specialists requiring a steady supply of warm thermal spring water containing a high concentration of dissolved minerals and a complex microbial community that provides food and habitat. The species and its habitat are currently protected from disturbance and destruction under Species at Risk Act and the Canada National Parks Act, but illegal activities such as soaking in thermal waters, which can crush snails and eggs and disturb habitat, are ongoing. The increase in frequency of springs drying due to climate change, which has been observed in the past decade, is believed to be an important threat to this species' survival. However, the species is closely monitored by Parks Canada.

Occurrence:
Alberta

Status history:
Designated Threatened in April 1997. Status re-examined and designated Endangered in May 2000 and April 2008. Last assessment based on an update status report.

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