Hay's spring amphipod facts for kids
Stygobromus hayi is a very special tiny creature. It's a type of crustacean called an amphipod. People often call it the Hay's Spring amphipod. This little animal is super rare. It lives only in one place in the whole world: Washington, D.C., USA. Specifically, you can find it in Rock Creek, which flows into the Potomac River. Because it's so rare, it's considered an endangered species. This means it needs our help to survive!
Quick facts for kids Stygobromus hayi |
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| Conservation status | |
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Crangonyctidae
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| Genus: |
Stygobromus
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| Species: |
S. hayi
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| Binomial name | |
| Stygobromus hayi (Hubricht & Mackin, 1940)
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Contents
Meet the Hay's Spring Amphipod
This amphipod is one of only three types found only in Washington D.C. Some people even call it "Washington D.C.'s most famous endemic." An "endemic" species is one that lives only in a specific area.
Where It Lives
The Hay's Spring amphipod lives in five special springs along Rock Creek. All these springs are found within a three-mile stretch of the creek. These tiny creatures live in seeps. Seeps are places where water comes up through the ground. The water then gets trapped just under the surface by a layer of clay.
What It Looks Like
This amphipod is quite small. It measures about 10 millimeters (0.39 in) long. That's about the length of a fingernail! Because it lives underground, it doesn't need to see. So, it has no eyes. It also has a white color, which is common for animals living in dark places.
Why It's in Danger
The Hay's Spring amphipod is in danger because its home is in a city. This means its habitat can get damaged.
- Pollution: Things like heavy metals have been found in the area. Other types of pollution can also hurt it. These include oil spills, leaks from sewer pipes, and fertilizer runoff from yards.
- Flooding: Big floods can wash away these tiny animals. Floods can also destroy the small places where they live.
- Construction: Building projects nearby can harm the creek. This can damage the amphipod's habitat.
- Recreation: People enjoying activities near the creek can sometimes cause more pollution.
Protecting This Tiny Creature
Luckily, Rock Creek Park helps protect the creek and its springs. Different groups watch over the creek and its sensitive species. This includes the Hay's Spring amphipod. They also monitor its relative, another amphipod called Stygobromus kenki. These efforts help keep these rare creatures safe.
