Six Central Texas Mussel Species Added to Endangered List

Federal protections aim to preserve biodiversity and water quality as climate change and urbanization threaten habitats.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed six freshwater mussel species as endangered and one as threatened.
Critical habitats have been designated across 1,577 miles of rivers in Central Texas.
The mussels are vital for filtering water and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Conservation efforts will involve collaboration with local river authorities and landowners.
The new protections could impact water management practices and development projects.