NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Federal officials are proposing removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list.
A news release from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says a review has found the crayfish populations are “healthy, stable and robust.”
The 7-inch (18-centimeter) crustacean lives only in the Mill Creek watershed in metropolitan Nashville.
The last review of the crayfish by the Fish and Wildlife Service recommended listing the species as “threatened.”
Tierra Curry says that would be a better option. The senior scientist with the Center for Biological Diversity says Nashville is developing rapidly, and giving the species threatened status would allow it some continued protection.
The proposal for delisting is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on Tuesday. The agency will accept public comments through January 27.
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