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The Vital Role of Texas Aquatic Ecosystems: Rivers, Species Diversity, and Conservation Concerns

Texas boasts an extensive network of 191,000 miles of rivers and streams with significant ecological importance, supporting over 255 species of fish and ranking among the nation's top states for freshwater biodiversity. However, it faces serious threats, with at least five native fish species extinct and over 20% facing extinction. Furthermore, Texas ranks in the top five states for endangered aquatic species. With projections showing the population may double by 2050, urgent conservation efforts are needed to protect these vital ecosystems for future generations.

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The Vital Role of Texas Aquatic Ecosystems: Rivers, Species Diversity, and Conservation Concerns

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  1. Texas Surface Water Resources 15 major river basins 191,000 miles of rivers and streams 7 major estuaries ~ 200 springs 6 million acres of bottomland hardwoods and forested wetlands

  2. Importance of Aquatic Ecosystems • 191,000 miles of rivers and streams in Texas provide habitat for 255 species of fishes • With over 150 species of native freshwater fishes, Texas ranks among the most biologically diverse states • Texas ranks 2nd nationally in terms of angler days and the amount of money spent on fishing • Sportfishing generates almost $6.4 billion per year

  3. Threats to Aquatic Ecosystems • At least five native Texas fishes are now extinct and three more are extirpated throughout the Texas portion of their range • ~20% of Texas fishes are threatened with extinction or extirpation from the Texas portion of their range • With 31 state and federally-listed endangered aquatic animals, Texas ranks in the top five states for numbers of endangered aquatic species

  4. Threats to Aquatic Ecosystems • 29 watersheds in Texas identified as critical for conserving at-risk fish and mussel species • Of 281 springs that were identified as historically significant, more than 80 have failed completely • With over half of the state’s water needs satisfied by groundwater, a number of the state’s largest springs continue to be at risk • Population of Texas predicted to double between the year 2000 and the year 2050.

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