Endemic Species

Endemic species are native species with limited distributions-- generally limited to one drainage. Sometimes, that drainage may be quite small. Endemic taxa generally originated in the drainage where they are presently found. These species are often of concern because their restricted distribution makes them vulnerable to extirpation. Some are listed as threatened or endangered. Other endemic species, though restricted to a single drainage, may be widely distributed and common there and less vulnerable to extirpation.

The Southeast is known for endemism of its aquatic taxa, partly due to its geologic history. In the South, 28 percent of fishes are found in only one drainage (Warren and others 2000). Many of these endemics are restricted to the highlands of the southern Appalachians (Scott and Helfman 2001). Likewise, endemism may be high for other aquatic species like mussels and crayfish.