San Marcos River Conservation Crew
Endangered Species Found in the San Marcos River
Here is a list of important species that are found in the San Marcos river and Spring Lake. Without the San Marcos River these species would be lost forever. It is important to keep the river healthy and to monitor river levels during droughts to preserve these species.
Texas Blind Salamander
This cave dwelling salamander is found only in the Edwards Aquifer in San Marcos. They have been found in the Purgatory Creek systems and along the San Marcos fault. Many are thought to inhabit areas that are not accessible by scientists.
Fountain Darter
The Fountain Darter is found in two freshwater rivers; the San Marcos River and the Comal River. It lives in dense aquaric vegetation and filamentous algae. It is a federally listed endangered species, as well as listed by IUCN.
Texas Wild Rice
Texas Wild Rice is found only in the upper San Marcos river. This plant was once abundant in the area but is now rare. It is threatened by lower water levels, recreation, and predation by nutria.
San Marcos Salamander
This small aquatic salamander is found in a small area near the headwaters of the San Marcos River. The San Marcos salamander has been federally listed since 1980. This animal is threatened by a number a factors including ground water contamination.