A Rare Fish Found Underground in Death Valley Is Making a Comeback
Death Valley, California, a sprawling desert and one of the hottest places on Earth, is an unlikely home for a fish. And yet in a water-filled cavern that extends deep underground, the Devils Hole pupfish is not only surviving, but growing in number. Read more on E360 →
In the heart of Death Valley, a desert famed for its blistering heat, lies a surprising sanctuary for a rare fish: the Devils Hole pupfish. These two-inch-long, fluorescent blue creatures, classified as endangered, are not only enduring but also experiencing a population boom. The pupfish inhabit a water-filled cavern, over 500 feet deep, located within a limestone formation.
The pupfish's survival is a testament to concerted conservation efforts. Overpumping of groundwater from nearby farms and seismic activities have previously threatened their habitat. However, by introducing captive-raised fish and supplying additional feed such as mysid shrimp, water fleas, and blood worms, conservationists have seen a significant increase in their numbers.
Recent surveys have revealed a doubling of the pupfish population. In a spring assessment, scuba divers counted 77 fish. A more recent survey, conducted last month, recorded 137 individuals, nearly double the initial figure. This surge in numbers raises questions about the origins of these fish in the desert. Some theories suggest that the fish were carried to the cavern during wetter periods via rivers and lakes. Others propose that birds or humans may have been responsible for their introduction.
The resilience of the Devils Hole pupfish and its burgeoning population serves as a beacon of hope in the face of environmental challenges, demonstrating the power of dedicated conservation efforts.
Written by urgent.news from Yale Environment 360's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
