[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 148 (Wednesday, August 3, 1994)]
[Unknown Section]
[Page 0]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 94-18923]


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[Federal Register: August 3, 1994]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish And Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

RIN 1018-AC63

 

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed 
Endangered Status for Five Freshwater Mussels and Proposed Threatened 
Status for Two Freshwater Mussels From Eastern Gulf Slope Drainages of 
Alabama, Florida, and Georgia

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) proposes to list seven 
freshwater mussels: The fat three-ridge (Amblema neislerii), shiny-
rayed pocketbook (Lampsilis subangulata), Gulf moccasinshell 
(Medionidus penicillatus), Ochlockonee moccasinshell (Medionidus 
simpsonianus), and oval pigtoe (Pleurobema pyriforme) as endangered, 
and the Chipola slabshell (Elliptio chipolaensis) and purple 
bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus) as threatened under the 
Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended. These mussels are 
endemic to eastern Gulf Slope streams draining the Apalachicolan Region 
of southeast Alabama, southwest Georgia, and north Florida. They are 
currently known from localized portions of from one to four isolated 
marine river systems, mostly in the eastern portion of the 
Apalachicolan Region. Impoundments and deteriorating water and benthic 
(bottom) habitat quality resulting from channel modification, 
siltation, agricultural runoff, silvicultural activities, mining 
activities, pollutants, poor land use practices, increased 
urbanization, and waste discharges have resulted in the restriction and 
fragmentation of these mussels current ranges. In addition, the Service 
has little evidence to suggest that populations of these seven species 
of mussels are reproductively viable.

DATES: Comments from all interested parties must be received by 
November 1, 1994. Public hearing requests must be received by September 
19, 1994.

ADDRESSES: Comments and materials concerning this proposal should be 
sent to the Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 
Jacksonville Field Office, 6620 Southpoint Drive South, Suite 310, 
Jacksonville, Florida 32216 (904/232-2580). Comments and materials 
received will be available for public inspection, by appointment, 
during normal business hours at the above address.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Robert S. Butler at the above 
address.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The fat three-ridge, shiny-rayed pocketbook, Gulf moccasinshell, 
Ochlockonee moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, Chipola slabshell, and purple 
bankclimber are freshwater mussels endemic to eastern Gulf Slope 
streams draining the Apalachicolan Region (streams from the Escambia to 
the Suwannee river systems in southeast Alabama, southwest Georgia and 
north Florida). The Apalachicolan Region primarily drains the Coastal 
Plain Physiographic Province. Only the headwaters of the Flint and 
Chattahoochee rivers, in the Apalachicola River system, occur above the 
Fall Line in the Piedmont Physiographic Province in west-central 
Georgia. Streams draining the East Gulf Coastal Plain are generally low 
gradient and have substrates of sand, silty sand, mud, and gravel. Some 
streams, particularly in the Apalachicola River system, have coarser 
substrates of cobble, boulders, and bedrock in addition to areas with 
softer bed materials. The seven species of mussels being considered for 
listing inhabit medium-sized streams to large rivers with substrates of 
silty sand, sand, or gravel, and mixtures of these substrates. All are 
generally found in areas with water currents, often in stream channels 
swept free of silt. The life histories of these seven species of 
mussels are unknown and little biological information is available.
    The Apalachicolan Region is known for its high level of endemicity, 
harboring nearly 30 species of endemic mussels (Butler 1989), at least 
a dozen fishes, over 20 aquatic snails, and nearly two dozen species of 
crayfish. In addition, several candidate species from the Service's 
animal notice of review published on November 21, 1991 (56 FR 58804) 
are also known from the Apalachicolan Region, the majority being 
endemic to these drainages. One of these candidates, the Ochlockonee 
arc-mussel is thought to be extinct (Turgeon et al. 1988), last 
reported in the early 1930's (Williams and Butler, in press). A recent 
status survey for candidate species of mussels in the Apalachicola 
River system did not locate any populations of the winged spike and 
lined pocketbook, species endemic to this system that were last sighted 
in 1958 and 1967, respectively. Between 1991 and 1993, the Service's 
National Fisheries Research Center, now the National Biological Survey, 
Biological Science Center, in Gainesville, Florida, completed field 
surveys for mussels in both the Apalachicola (325 collections at 315 
sites) and Ochlockonee (77 collections at 72 sites) river systems. 
These surveys are summarized by Butler (1993), and the information is 
sufficient to support a status recommendation of endangered for the fat 
three-ridge, shiny-rayed pocketbook, Gulf moccasinshell, Ochlockonee 
moccasinshell, and oval pigtoe, and a status recommendation of 
threatened for the Chipola slabshell and purple bankclimber. Common and 
scientific nomenclature used in this rule follows that suggested by 
Turgeon et al. (1988).
    The fat three-ridge (Amblema neislerii) is a medium-sized to large, 
subquadrate, inflated, solid, and heavy shelled mussel that reaches a 
length of 102 millimeters (4.0 inches). Older individuals are often so 
inflated that their width approximates their length. The dark brown to 
black shell is strongly sculptured with seven to eight prominent 
horizontal parallel ridges. Internally, there are two subequal 
pseudocardinal teeth in the left valve and one large and one small 
tooth in the right valve. The nacre is bluish white to light purplish 
and very iridescent. The Service considers Unio neislerii to be a 
synonym of Amblema neislerii.
    This taxon was originally assigned to the genera Quadrula and 
Crenodonta by Simpson (1914) and Clench and Turner (1956), 
respectively. Subsequent investigators have placed the fat three- ridge 
in the genus Amblema. The fat three-ridge was described from the Flint 
River, Macon County, Georgia, and it historically occurred in the 
mainstems of the lower two-thirds of the Flint, the lower one-third of 
the Chipola, and in the Apalachicola rivers (Clench and Turner 1956, 
Butler 1993). Since 1981, no live specimens have been found in the 
Flint River. Its present range is restricted to six localities in 
Florida, three each in the Apalachicola River mainstem and the 
lowermost Chipola River mainstem (Butler 1993). Only two of these 
localities have sizable populations, which number in the dozens of 
specimens. However, the viability of these populations of the fat 
three-ridge is not known. The fat three-ridge has a very low tolerance 
for impoundments.
    The shiny-rayed pocketbook (Lampsilis subangulata) is a medium- 
sized mussel that reaches approximately 85 mm (3.3 in) in length. The 
shell is subelliptical, with broad, somewhat inflated umbos and a 
rounded posterior ridge. The fairly thin but solid shell is smooth and 
shiny, and light yellowish brown with fairly wide bright emerald green 
rays over its entire length. Older individuals appear much darker brown 
with obscure raying. Internally, the pseudocardinal teeth are double 
and fairly large and erect in the left valve with one large tooth and 
one spatulate tooth in the right valve. The nacre is white, with some 
individuals exhibiting a salmon tint in the vicinity of the umbonal 
cavity. The Service recognizes Unio subangulatus and Unio kirklandianus 
as synonyms of Lampsilis subangulata.
    The shiny-rayed pocketbook was described from the Chattahoochee 
River, Columbus, Georgia. Historically, this mussel occurred at 18 
different Flint River system localities including numerous tributaries 
and several mainstem sites, 1 Chattahoochee River mainstem site and 6 
sites in some of its tributaries, 2 sites in an Apalachicola River 
tributary (Mosquito Creek), a couple of Chipola River tributary sites 
and several localities in the mainstem above Dead Lake, and several 
sites in the Ochlockonee River mainstem from Talquin Reservoir upstream 
to Georgia and in a couple of its tributaries (Clench and Turner 1956, 
Butler 1993). The 19 populations presently known are restricted to: a 
single Uchee Creek system site in the Chattahoochee River system of 
Alabama, 11 scattered sites in Flint River tributaries, 2 sites in the 
Chipola River system including a mainstem and tributary (Dry Creek) 
site, and 5 Ochlockonee River mainstem and tributary sites in the upper 
half of the system (Butler 1993). The shiny-rayed pocketbook presently 
occupies about two-thirds of its original range. Population sizes 
numbered in the dozens of individuals at a few historical sites in both 
systems. However, recent collections are generally represented by only 
a few individuals, and evidence of any production is scarce. This 
riverine species does not tolerate impoundments.
    The Gulf moccasinshell (Medionidus penicillatus), a small mussel, 
reaches a length of about 55 mm (2.2 in), is elongate-elliptical or 
rhomboidal in shape and fairly inflated, and has relatively thin 
valves. The ventral margin is nearly straight or slightly rounded. The 
posterior ridge is rounded to slightly angled and intersects the end of 
the shell at the base line. Females tend to have the posterior point 
above the ventral margin and are somewhat more inflated than males. 
Sculpturing consists of a series of thin, radially-oriented plications 
along the length of the posterior slope. The remainder of the shell 
surface is smooth and yellowish to greenish brown with fine, typically 
interrupted green rays. The left valve has two stubby pseudocardinal 
and two arcuate lateral teeth and the right valve has one 
pseudocardinal and one lateral tooth. Nacre color is smokey purple or 
greenish and slightly iridescent at the posterior end. The Service 
recognizes Unio penicillatus and Unio kingi as synonyms of Medionidus 
penicillatus.
    Much confusion clouds the taxonomy of Medionidus species in the 
Apalachicolan Region. In the Chipola River system, van der Schalie 
(1940) recorded two species of Medionidus (M. kingi and M. 
penicillatus). Clench and Turner (1956) synonomized M. kingi and two 
other nominate species, the Ochlockonee moccasinshell and Suwannee 
moccasinshell with the Gulf moccasinshell, an arrangement also followed 
by Burch (1975). Johnson (1970) erroneously reported both the Gulf 
moccasinshell and Suwannee moccasinshell from the Apalachicola River 
system and the Suwannee moccasinshell from the Ochlockonee and Suwannee 
rivers as well. In his monograph on Medionidus, Johnson (1977) 
recognized the validity of the Gulf moccasinshell, Ochlockonee 
moccasinshell, and Suwannee moccasinshell from Apalachicolan Region 
streams based on shell characters. Turgeon et al. (1988) also 
recognized the validity of these three allopatrically distributed 
mussels.
    The Gulf moccasinshell was described from three sites in the 
Apalachicola River system in Georgia: the Chattahoochee River near 
Columbus and Atlanta, and the Flint River near Albany. The historical 
distribution of this diminutive species included 18 sites in the 
tributaries and mainstems of the Flint and Chattahoochee rivers, one 
Apalachicola River site, and 12 sites in the Chipola River system. The 
Gulf moccasinshell is known from 38 historical sites and has been 
eliminated from about three-quarters of its original range. It persists 
at eight tributary sites in the middle Flint River system, and in 
Econfina Creek (Butler 1993) but has not been collected in the 
Choctawhatchee River system since the early 1930's. Large populations 
(60+ individuals) were documented at several of historical sites in the 
Chipola River system (van der Schalie 1940); they probably occurred in 
similar numbers at other sites as well. However, recent collections of 
the Gulf moccasinshell indicate that only small populations persist 
today. The Service's recent survey of the Apalachicola River system 
located a total of only 10 specimens. Given the small sample sizes, the 
population viability of this species is questionable. The Gulf 
moccasinshell does not tolerate impoundments.
    The Ochlockonee moccasinshell (Medionidus simpsonianus) is a small 
species, generally under 55 mm (2.5 in) in length. It is slightly 
elongate-elliptical in outline with the posterior end obtusely rounded 
at the shells median line and the ventral margin broadly curved. The 
posterior ridge is moderately angular and covered in its entire length 
with well developed, irregular ridges. Sculpturing may also extend onto 
the disk below the ridge and the surface texture is smooth. The color 
is light brown to yellowish green, with dark green rays formed by a 
series of connecting chevrons or undulating lines across the length of 
the shell. Internal characters include thin straight lateral teeth and 
compressed pseudocardinal teeth. There are two laterals and two 
pseudocardinals in the left valve and one lateral and one 
pseudocardinal in the right valve. The nacre is bluish white. The 
Service considers Unio simpsonianus to be a synonym of Medionidus 
simpsonianus.
    The Ochlockonee moccasinshell was described from the Ochlockonee 
River, Calvary, Grady County, Georgia. This mussel was known 
historically from six sites in the mainstem above Talquin Reservoir, 
three each in Georgia and Florida, and single site locations on the 
lower mainstem below Talquin Reservoir and in the Little River (Johnson 
1977, Butler 1993). However, since 1974, the Ochlockonee moccasinshell 
has been represented by only two live individuals (both found as 
individuals at a single site in the mainstem above Talquin Reservoir in 
Florida in the past 5 years) despite concerted efforts by numerous 
investigators to locate additional populations. Four weathered dead 
shells were found at other mainstem sites in the past few years, 
including two sites in Georgia and one site in Florida. Once a fairly 
common species, with some populations numbering in the dozens of 
individuals, the Ochlockonee moccasinshell is now one of the rarest 
mussels in North America. This narrow endemic does not tolerate 
impoundment conditions.
    The oval pigtoe (Pleurobema pyriforme) is a small to medium-sized 
mussel that attains a length of about 60 mm (2.4 in). The shell is 
suboviform compressed, with a shiny smooth epidermis. The periostracum 
is yellowish, chestnut, or dark brown, rayless, and with distinct 
growth lines. The posterior slope is biangulate and forms a blunt point 
on the posterior margin. The umbos are slightly elevated above the 
hingeline. As is typical of the genus, no sexual dimorphism is 
displayed in shell characters. Internally the pseudocardinal teeth are 
fairly large, crenulate and double in both valves. The lateral teeth 
are somewhat shortened, arcuate and double in each valve. Nacre color 
varies from salmon to bluish white and is iridescent posteriorly. 
Variation in this species has led to the description of various nominal 
species. The Service recognizes Unio pyriforme, Unio modicus, Unio 
bulbosus, Unio amabilis, Unio reclusum, Unio harperi, and Pleurobema 
simpsoni as synonyms of Pleurobema pyriforme.
    The oval pigtoe was described from the Chattahoochee River, near 
Columbus, Georgia. Historically, this species was one of the most 
widely distributed mussels endemic to the Apalachicolan Region. It 
occurred throughout the mainstems and several tributaries of both the 
Flint (16 sites) and Chipola (10 sites) river systems, at 5 sites in 
the Chattahoochee River system including one mainstem site, all 
associated with the Fall Line in Alabama and Georgia, at 6 sites in the 
Ochlockonee River mainstem above Talquin Reservoir in Florida and 
Georgia, at a single site on the lower Suwannee River and 15 sites in 
the upper Santa Fe River system, its major tributary, in north Florida, 
and at a site in Econfina Creek, in northwest Florida (Clench and 
Turner 1956, Butler 1993). Fifty-four total historical sites are known. 
Existing populations have been verified from 21 sites, including 5 
scattered tributaries (7 sites) of the Flint River system and a single 
mainstem site, 4 Chipola River sites and 1 in its tributary Dry Creek, 
6 upper Ochlockonee River mainstem sites, and single sites in both the 
New River in the upper Santa Fe River system, and in Econfina Creek 
(Butler 1993).
    Recent surveys have documented the extirpation of the oval pigtoe 
from approximately two-thirds of its historical range, with no 
populations persisting in Alabama. Once a species of localized 
abundance (Clench and Turner 1956), oval pigtoe populations sometimes 
numbered in the hundreds (van der Schalie 1940). However, recent 
collections of the oval pigtoe are generally small, and rarely exceed a 
dozen individuals at any one site. The Service in its recent survey 
located only a single specimen from the entire Flint River mainstem. It 
is not known whether existing populations are sufficient in numbers to 
sustain the species. The oval pigtoe does not tolerate impoundments.
    The Chipola slabshell (Elliptio chipolaensis) is a medium-sized 
species reaching a length of about 85 mm (3.3 in). The shell is ovate 
to subelliptical, somewhat inflated and with the posterior ridge 
starting out rounded but flattening to form a prominent biangulate 
margin. The shell surface is smooth and chestnut in color. Dark brown 
coloration may appear in the umbonal region and the remaining surface 
may exhibit alternating light and dark bands. The umbos are prominent, 
well above the hingeline. Internally, the umbonal cavity is rather 
deep. The lateral teeth are long, slender, and slightly curved, with 
two in the left and one in the right valve. The pseudocardinal teeth 
are compressed and crenulate, with two in the left and one in the right 
valve. Nacre color is salmon, becoming more intense dorsally and 
somewhat iridescent posteriorly. The Service considers Unio 
chipolaensis to be a synonym of Elliptio chipolaensis.
    The Chipola slabshell was described from the Chipola River in 
Florida. Clench and Turner (1956) restricted the type locality to the 
Chipola River, 1 mile north of Marianna, Jackson County, Florida. Until 
recently, this species was considered endemic to the Chipola River 
system, occurring in the mainstem above Dead Lake and a few of the 
larger tributaries, all in Florida (van der Schalie 1940, Clench and 
Turner 1956). A single record of this mussel from a tributary of the 
Chattahoochee River in extreme southeastern Alabama has been verified 
by Butler (1993). These localities bring the total number of historic 
sites the Chipola slabshell inhabited to nine. The Chipola slabshell is 
known to persist only at four Chipola River mainstem sites and in Dry 
Creek, with the populations from Spring Creek (Chipola River system) 
and the Chattahoochee River system apparently extirpated. The numbers 
of specimens from recent collections indicate that populations are 
generally small, except at one site in the lower mainstem where three 
dozen specimens were recently observed (W. McCullagh, pers. comm.). The 
Chipola slabshell has the most restricted range of the Apalachicolan 
Region mussels. This species does not tolerate impoundments, but is 
more tolerant of silt than the other species of mussels.
    The purple bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus) is a large, heavy 
shelled, strongly sculptured mussel reaching a length of about 200 mm 
(8.0 in). A well developed posterior ridge extends from the umbos to 
the posterior ventral margin of the shell. The posterior slope and the 
disk just anterior to the posterior ridge are sculptured by several 
irregular ridges that vary greatly in development. Umbos are low, 
extending just above the dorsal margin of the shell. Internally, there 
is one pseudocardinal tooth in the right valve and two in the left 
valve. The lateral teeth are very thick and slightly curved. Nacre 
color is whitish near the center of the shell becoming deep purple 
towards the margin, and very iridescent posteriorly. The Service 
recognizes Unio sloatianus, Unio atromarginatus, Unio aratus, and Unio 
plectophorus as synonyms of Elliptoideus sloatianus. The purple 
bankclimber was described from the Chattahoochee River and its type 
locality is restricted to the Chattahoochee River at Columbus, Georgia 
(Clench and Turner 1956).
    Historically, the purple bankclimber was found at 14 sites in the 
Flint River system; 3 sites on the Chipola River mainstem (Dead Lake 
vicinity); 2 sites on the Apalachicola River mainstem; the type 
locality on the Chattahoochee River; and at 4 sites along the lower 
two-thirds of the Ochlockonee River mainstem in Florida and Georgia 
(Clench and Turner 1956, Butler 1993). A total of 24 historic sites are 
known for this species.
    This large mussel persists at 10 sites in the lower two-thirds of 
the Flint River mainstem, at 4 sites in the Apalachicola River, and at 
8 sites in the Ochlockonee River mostly above Talquin Reservoir (Butler 
1993). Although the purple bankclimber is currently known from only two 
fewer total sites than before, the species has nevertheless experienced 
a significant reduction in its total range. No specimens in recent 
years have been reported from the Chipola River and the species has not 
been collected in the Chattahoochee River for several decades. In 
addition, Flint River tributary populations appear to have been totally 
eliminated. At a few sites in the Florida portion of the Ochlockonee 
River, the purple bankclimber may number in the dozens of individuals. 
This species of mussel does not tolerate impoundment conditions well.
    On November 18, 1993, the Service notified (by mail; 72 letters) 
Federal and State agencies, local governments, and interested 
individuals that a status review was being conducted for these seven 
species. A total of ten comments was received as a result of this 
notification. The Florida Division Office of the Federal Highway 
Administration replied that no bridge replacement projects were 
currently being planned in northwest Florida, and it was anticipated 
that any future bridge replacement projects would have no effect on 
these species based on the localized and short-term impacts associated 
with these activities. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
reported that it licenses 12 hydroelectric development projects in the 
study area, and that any issues concerning these species could best be 
coordinated with the Office of Hydropower Licensing. The Fayette County 
(Georgia) Board of Commissioners expressed concern over the Service's 
contention that impoundments have played a major role in the decline of 
these species, but they did not oppose the listing. The Alachua County 
(Florida) Environmental Protection Department, after consultation with 
a Florida Museum of Natural History malacologist, indicated that none 
of these seven species of mussels are known or were suspected to occur 
in Alachua county. The Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission 
expressed concern with how its plan to dredge the mouths of several 
silted-in streams along the Apalachicola River to improve access to 
striped bass might have on these mussels. The Georgia Department of 
Natural Resources (GDNR) had some questions concerning the distribution 
of these mussels, particularly in Georgia. The Florida Natural Areas 
Inventory supported the Service's listing of these species and provided 
information on Econfina Creek watershed where the Gulf moccasinshell 
and oval pigtoe occur. Three experts on freshwater mussels supported 
the potential Federal protection of these species. No objections to the 
proposed listing of these species were received.

Previous Federal Action

    The purple bankclimber, oval pigtoe, shiny-rayed pocketbook, and 
fat three-ridge are included as category 2 species in the Service's 
notices of review for animal candidates that were published in the 
Federal Register on January 6, 1989 (54 FR 554) and on November 21, 
1991 (56 FR 58804). A category 2 species is one that may be in need of 
listing as endangered or threatened, but for which conclusive data on 
biological vulnerability and threat are not currently available to 
support a proposed rule. Based on status surveys that were completed in 
1993, the Service has determined that all of the species included in 
this proposal now qualify as category 1 species.

Summary of Factors Affecting the Species

    Section 4(a)(1) of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et 
seq.) and regulations (50 CFR part 424) promulgated to implement the 
listing provisions of the Act set forth the procedures for adding 
species to the Federal lists. A species may be determined to be an 
endangered or threatened species due to one or more of the five factors 
described in section 4(a)(1). These factors and their application to 
the fat three-ridge (Amblema neislerii), shiny-rayed pocketbook 
(Lampsilis subangulata), Gulf moccasinshell (Medionidus penicillis), 
Ochlockonee moccasinshell (Medionidus simpsonianus), oval pigtoe 
(Pleurobema pyriforme), Chipola slabshell (Elliptio chipolaensis), and 
purple bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus) are as follows:

A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment 
of Its Habitat or Range

    These species of mussels are endemic to the eastern Gulf Slope 
streams draining the Apalachicolan Region of southeast Alabama, 
southwest Georgia and north Florida. They are currently found in 
localized portions of from one to four isolated marine river systems, 
mostly in the eastern portion of the Apalachicolan Region. These 
species have been rendered vulnerable to extinction by the significant 
loss of habitat within their restricted ranges in Apalachicolan Region 
streams. Factors contributing to this habitat loss are: impoundments 
and deteriorating water and benthic habitat quality resulting from 
channel modification, siltation, agricultural runoff from crop 
monoculture and poultry farms, silvicultural activities, mining 
activities, pollutants, poor land use practices, increased 
urbanization, and municipal and industrial waste discharges.
    A consideration of the effects of these impacts upon fishes is of 
critical importance in evaluating the well-being of mussels. Mussels 
and fishes are inextricably linked ecologically; most larval mussels 
(glochidia) are obligate parasites of specific fishes. Therefore, these 
various impacts may have resulted in the elimination of certain fishes 
that serve as potential host species for these mussels.
    Impoundments have altered a significant portion of the free-flowing 
big river habitats of the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee river systems in 
which most of these species occur. Stream habitat is destroyed by the 
conversion of free-flowing streams to man-made lakes and ponds. In 
addition to riverine habitat destruction, dams block the passage of 
certain migratory fishes which serve as hosts for one or more of these 
seven mussel species. None of these seven mussel species are known to 
reproduce in impoundments.
    The Apalachicola River system has been especially impacted by the 
construction of numerous mainstem dams. This is true for the 
Chattahoochee River, which has nine major dams and four locks and dams 
along its lower mainstem to facilitate barge traffic. Additional major 
dams are located on the Flint River mainstem (e.g., Blackshear 
Reservoir) and on the Apalachicola River where it is formed by the 
confluence of the Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers (Seminole Reservoir). 
Smaller dams are located on major rivers and tributaries throughout the 
Apalachicola River system and in other regional streams. Although pre-
impoundment records are generally unknown for the fat three-ridge, 
shiny-rayed pocketbook, Gulf moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, and purple 
bankclimber in the Apalachicola River system, numerous populations of 
these species were possibly destroyed as a result of impoundments. It 
has been decades since any live specimens of these five species were 
found along the Chattahoochee River mainstem; the type locality for the 
shiny-rayed pocketbook, Gulf moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, and purple 
bankclimber.
    Talquin Reservoir, an impoundment on the Ochlockonee River formed 
by the closure of Jackson Bluff Dam, inundated a significant reach of 
the middle portion of the river mainstem. Pre-impoundment records for 
the shiny-rayed pocketbook, Ochlockonee moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, and 
purple bankclimber from a site at the upstream end of Talquin Reservoir 
exist in museum collections. Most of these mussel species once had 
sizable populations at this site. Undocumented populations of these 
four species were probably destroyed by the filling of Talquin 
Reservoir.
    In addition to riverine habitat being destroyed by Talquin 
Reservoir, the river downstream of Jackson Bluff Dam shows noticeable 
signs of being impacted by sediment deposition. Riverine mussels such 
as the shiny-rayed pocketbook, Ochlockonee moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, 
and purple bankclimber, are nearly absent in sizable stretches of this 
heavily silted river. One site recently sampled by the Service (with 
SCUBA gear) had deposits of detritus and silt sediments. The river 
lacked flows adequate to flush the channel of silty sediments. 
Potential lower mainstem channel habitat of the shiny-rayed pocketbook, 
Ochlockonee moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, and purple bankclimber are 
being impacted by this deposition.
    Navigation channel maintenance in the Chattahoochee and 
Apalachicola Rivers has destroyed long stretches of benthic habitat. In 
addition to the damage caused by the mechanical removal of tons of 
substrate, these activities increase sedimentation in downstream areas 
by resuspending silt fines which smother benthic organisms. Dredging 
activities may also resuspend contaminants that are bound to sediments, 
thus potentially exposing aquatic organisms to released toxicants. 
Potential host fishes for the fat three-ridge and purple bankclimber in 
the Apalachicola River may also be disrupted by channel modifications. 
Maintenance operations in the Apalachicola River mainstem continue to 
disrupt habitat for these two species. A third mussel, the Gulf 
moccasinshell, has apparently been extirpated from the Apalachicola 
River.
    Gravel mining operations have been observed in various portions of 
the Apalachicolan Region. Primary stream impacts associated with gravel 
mining include stream channel modifications (alterations of habitat, 
flow patterns, and sediment transport), water quality modifications, 
aquatic invertebrate population changes and changes in fish populations 
(alteration and elimination of spawning and nursery habitats, and food 
web disruptions) (Kanehl and Lyons 1992). Channel degradation caused by 
gravel mining has been implicated in the destruction of mussel 
populations (Hartfield 1993, Grace and Buchanan 1981). In a study by 
Grace and Buchanan (1981), mussels were still absent from an in-stream 
dredged area 15 years after mining took place. Siltation is 
particularly increased during the mining of in-stream gravel and/or 
during the washing of gravel which rinses silt and debris back into the 
stream. Gravel from the Chattahoochee River is used for various 
purposes including landscaping throughout the region. Jenkinson (1973) 
recorded the shiny-rayed pocketbook, oval pigtoe, Gulf moccasinshell, 
and 10 other mussel species in Little Uchee Creek (Chattahoochee River 
system) in Alabama. The creek now has active in-stream gravel mines; 
only a few shell fragments were found during a recent survey by the 
Service.
    Municipal and industrial pollutants are widespread in Apalachicolan 
Region streams. Many municipal waste water treatment plants provide 
only secondary treatment of waste water and three plants discharging 
wastes into the New River (Suwannee River system) threaten that 
stream's population of the oval pigtoe. From 1955 to 1977, an estimated 
950,000,000 gallons of chemical-laden solutions were discharged into 
the Flint River from a Department of Defense facility in Albany, 
Georgia (P. Laumeyer, Service, pers. comm.). Service biologists 
surveyed a stretch of the Flint River where dozens of purple 
bankclimbers had been killed by an unknown pollutant. Hundreds of round 
washboards (Megalonaias boykiniana) were found dead in the upper Flint 
River (C. Coney, Los Angeles County Museum, pers. comm.) and various 
beds of dead mussels (species unknown) were observed in the Suwannee 
River (L. Parker, Service, pers. comm.). A battery plant operation 
threatens water quality in the Chipola River system, which harbors 
populations of the fat three-ridge, shiny-rayed pocketbook, oval 
pigtoe, and Chipola slabshell.
    Various agricultural practices conducted in the Apalachicolan 
Region have contributed to stream and habitat degradation. A Soil 
Conservation Service (1993) study of a small agricultural watershed 
area in the middle Flint River system reported an average of 35.44 
metric tons per hectare per year (15.8 tons per acre per year) of 
sediment loading into area waters; 97% of the total sedimentation in 
the watershed was generated from agricultural runoff. Agricultural 
runoff, in the form of organophosphate or carbamate pesticides, has 
been implicated in the die-off of populations of freshwater mussels (J. 
Fleming, National Biological Survey, unpub. data). The poultry industry 
is expanding operations into the Apalachicolan Region, particularly in 
the watersheds of the upper Apalachicola River system. Runoff from 
chicken farms causes oxygen depletion in streams and has been 
implicated in fish and mussel die-offs in Alabama (U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service 1993). Feedlots are also another source of pollution 
in localized portions of the region's streams. Large dairy farms 
located in the Suwannee River watershed also contribute to the 
pollution of this system's waters.
    Erosion from poor land use practices causes extensive loss of 
topsoil and the subsequent siltation of stream bottoms. Sources of 
siltation include timber clearcutting and other silvicultural 
activities, clearing of riparian vegetation for agricultural purposes, 
and those construction and mining practices that allow exposed earth to 
enter streams. Light to moderate levels of siltation are common in many 
of the streams in the Apalachicolan Region that still have populations 
of these seven mussel species. Heavily silted streams were observed by 
Service biologists in numerous tributaries of the Chattahoochee and 
upper Flint Rivers, particularly those draining the Piedmont 
Physiographic Province, which is well known for its highly erodible 
soils. Stream banks devoid of riparian vegetation commonly slough-off 
into stream channels. Several clear-cuts have been observed in 
watersheds of the middle Apalachicola River system, some with 
inadequate riparian buffer strips (J. Brim-Box, Service, pers. comm.). 
A disregard for maintaining riparian buffers during silvicultural 
activities threaten streams throughout the Apalachicolan Region. 
Continued siltation and sedimentation of these streams may result in a 
depauperate fish fauna, reducing populations at many sites to those 
dominated by species tolerant of degraded habitats. The negative 
effects of silt on benthic fishes were summarized by Burkhead and 
Jenkins (1991). Siltation reduces habitat heterogeneity and increases 
fish egg and larval mortality, abrades organisms, and alters 
macrobenthic communities.
    The health of these seven mussel species is directly tied to 
benthic habitat quality. The effects of siltation on freshwater mussels 
is more devastating than on fishes due to the sedentary nature of 
mussels. Ellis (1936) conducted experiments on the effects of silt on 
mussels and determined that most mussels tested died from silt deposits 
of one quarter to one inch. Silt also transfers organic substances into 
streams, adversely affecting stream habitat and water quality by 
producing increased and localized enrichment impacts (Ellis 1936).
    Artifact and fossil collectors regularly work streams in various 
portions of the Apalachicolan Region and have been known to use suction 
dredges to scour benthic habitats, thus increasing siltation 
downstream. A study on the effects of suction gold dredging on stream 
invertebrates (Harvey 1986) concluded that impacts from these 
activities are more severe in streams with soft substrates, which are 
typical for most Apalachicolan Region streams where these mussels 
occur.
    Much non-agricultural and non-silvicultural habitat degradation in 
the upper Apalachicola River system watershed is attributed to 
increased urbanization, particularly in the metropolitan areas of 
Atlanta, Columbus, and Albany. This current high rate of development is 
resulting in the conversion of farmland in areas relatively remote from 
these cities. Associated with increased development and land clearing 
is increased siltation from erosion, accelerated runoff and transport 
of pollutants in stormwater, and increased discharge of effluents.
    The tributaries harboring populations of these seven mussel species 
are criss-crossed by numerous road and railroad bridges. These 
crossings are potential sites for accidental spills of toxic materials 
into streams. The large number of bridge crossings in the Apalachicolan 
Region makes it probable that such a spill might occur in the future.

B. Overutilization for Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or 
Educational Purposes.

    The fat three-ridge is a potential target species for the cultured 
pearl industry. Currently a congener (the three-ridge, Amblema plicata) 
is heavily utilized as a source of shell for pearl nuclei in more 
northern rivers. Due to a tremendous increase in the price of shell, 
the harvesting of shell beds has resulted in the scouting of larger 
drainages in the Apalachicolan Region for potential sources of shell. 
Although prices have decreased since 1992, future increases in shell 
price and competition for harvestable populations can not be ruled out. 
Biological supply companies have utilized the Flint and Ochlockonee 
rivers as sources for larger mussel specimens, including the purple 
bankclimber and possibly the fat three-ridge, to sell to academic 
institutions for use in laboratory studies. Supply company 
representatives have contacted Service biologists in hopes of obtaining 
information on new, unexploited mussel populations in the Apalachicolan 
Region. On one recent occasion, approximately 10,000 large mussel 
specimens, presumably including the purple bankclimber and possibly the 
fat three-ridge, were harvested from the Flint River near Bainbridge 
for this purpose (J. Brim-Box, pers. comm.). Some of these species are 
a potential source of raw material for the polished chip industry. 
Costume jewelry crafted from purple bankclimber shells has been 
observed in arts and crafts fairs in the Southeast. Unregulated harvest 
of the fat three-ridge and purple bankclimber for these purposes, if 
unchecked, could decimate their remaining populations. Small and/or 
thin-shelled mussel species, such as the other five mussels considered 
here, are not known to be utilized commercially.
    There are a large number of shell clubs in Florida and surrounding 
States. Both national and international meetings for amateur and 
professional malacologists are held in this area, and generally include 
organized field collecting trips to a variety of habitats. The 
attraction of large numbers of people interested in the study and 
collection of mollusks increases the potential for overcollection of 
these mussels. These species, particularly the larger ones, are 
potential bait species, and are susceptible to harvesting especially 
during low-flow periods. Publication of this rule will inform the 
general public as to the presence of these seven mussels in 
Apalachicolan Region streams. The rarity of these mussels potentially 
makes them more appealing to shell collectors. Thus, revealing specific 
stream reaches harboring these species could pose a threat from such 
collectors. Federal protection would serve to minimize adverse 
population impacts from illegal take.

C. Disease or Predation.

    Although diseases of freshwater mussels are virtually unknown, the 
periodic dieoff of mussel populations in several primarily midwestern 
rivers in recent years may be due to unidentified diseases. Juvenile 
and adult mussels serve as prey for various animals, and the muskrat 
has been implicated in jeopardizing recovery of listed mussels (Neves 
and Odum 1989). Muskrats do not occur with regularity on Coastal Plain 
streams, where most of these mussels exist. However, Piedmont 
populations of the shiny-rayed pocketbook and oval pigtoe in the upper 
Flint River system may be subjected to some degree of muskrat 
predation.

D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms

    A scientific collecting permit is required by the State of Georgia 
to collect mussels for scientific purposes. However, dredging, 
brailling, or any form of mechanical harvest of mussels is illegal. In 
addition, a size limit has been placed on mussels harvested 
commercially in Georgia. Handpicking mussels requires only a resident 
or non-resident fishing license. In the State of Florida an individual 
must purchase a fishing license to collect mussels. Despite these 
permit requirements, there are no restrictions on the seasonality or 
sites of harvest, quantity, or species of mussels collected in Florida 
or Georgia. Alabama has recently imposed a set of guidelines concerning 
commercial harvest of mussels, including species-specific size limits, 
restricted areas for harvest, and closed seasons. Existing authorities 
available to protect aquatic systems, such as the Clean Water Act, 
administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army 
Corps of Engineers, have not been fully utilized and may have led to 
the degradation of aquatic environments in the Southeast Region, thus 
resulting in a decline of aquatic species. If these seven species are 
listed under the Act, it would provide protection under section 9 of 
the Act by prohibiting the take of these species except under Federal 
permit. Further, listing will require consultation with the EPA in 
relationship to water quality criteria, standards, and National 
Pollution Discharge Elimination System permits under the Clean Water 
Act, and implementation of actions to recover the species.

E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Its Continued Existence

    The range of these seven mussel species has been fragmented, and 
significant portions of the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee river systems 
have been permanently altered by various reservoirs. Many of the 
streams these species inhabit exhibit moderate to heavy degradation 
from poor land use practices. These factors have caused local 
extirpation and fragmentation of most of these species' populations. It 
is not known how many populations of these seven species are viable, 
but few juveniles have been observed in recent years. The restricted 
distribution of these seven mussels makes them vulnerable to 
extirpation from catastrophic events, such as toxic chemical spills.
    The introduced Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) has invaded nearly 
all of the river systems in which these mussels occur, competing with 
native mussels for nutrients and space. Densities of Asian clams are 
sometimes heavy in Apalachicolan Region streams, with estimates running 
from approximately one hundred per square meter (Flint River, Sickel 
1973) to thousands per square meter (Santa Fe River, Bass and Hitt 
1974). In some streams the substrate has changed from one of a fairly 
homogeneous silty sand or sand to one with a gravel-like composition 
comprised of huge numbers of live and dead Asian clam shells. In some 
of these streams, the Gulf moccasinshell and Ochlockonee moccasinshell 
were once common but are now extirpated or severely reduced in numbers. 
This exotic species may be particularly competitive with small native 
mussels such as the diminutive moccasinshells.
    In developing this rule, the Service has assessed the best 
scientific and commercial information available regarding the past, 
present, and future threats faced by these seven mussels. Based upon 
these evaluations, the preferred action is to list the fat three-ridge, 
shiny-rayed pocketbook, oval pigtoe, Gulf moccasinshell, and 
Ochlockonee moccasinshell as endangered and the Chipola slabshell and 
purple bankclimber as threatened. These seven mussel species are 
endemic to the Apalachicolan Region in southeast Alabama, southwest 
Georgia, and north Florida, where they occur in from one to four 
isolated marine river systems. The fat three-ridge, Chipola slabshell, 
and Ochlockonee moccasinshell are endemic to single drainages, the 
former two species to the Apalachicola and the latter species to the 
Ochlockonee river systems. The shiny-rayed pocketbook and purple 
bankclimber are restricted to both the Apalachicola and Ochlockonee 
river systems, while the oval pigtoe is found in these two rivers in 
addition to the Suwannee River and Econfina Creek systems. The Gulf 
moccasinshell is now restricted to the Apalachicola River system and 
Econfina Creek.
    These species have been rendered vulnerable to extinction by 
significant loss of habitat and severe range restriction. The 
restricted distribution of these seven species also makes localized 
populations susceptible to catastrophic events and increased pressures 
from take.

Critical Habitat

    Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as amended, and implementing 
regulations (50 CFR 424.12) require that, to the maximum extent prudent 
and determinable, the Secretary designate critical habitat at the time 
the species is determined to be endangered or threatened. The Service 
finds that designation of critical habitat is not prudent for these 
species. Service regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)) state that 
designation of critical habitat is not prudent when one or both of the 
following situations exist--(1) The species is threatened by taking or 
other human activity, and identification of critical habitat can be 
expected to increase the degree of threat to the species, or (2) such 
designation of critical habitat would not be beneficial to the species. 
Such a determination would result in no known benefit to these species, 
and designation of critical habitat could further increase the threat 
of collecting or vandalism.
    Regulations promulgated for implementing section 7 provide for both 
a jeopardy standard, based on listing alone, and for a destruction or 
adverse modification standard, in cases where critical habitat has been 
designated. The fat three-ridge, shiny-rayed pocketbook, Gulf 
moccasinshell, Ochlockonee moccasinshell, oval pigtoe, Chipola 
slabshell, and purple bankclimber occupy very restricted stream 
reaches. Any significant adverse modification or destruction of their 
habitat would likely jeopardize their continued existence. Therefore, 
no additional protection for the species would accrue from critical 
habitat designation that would not also accrue from listing these 
species. If these are listed, the Service believes that protection of 
their habitat can be accomplished through the section 7 jeopardy 
standard, and through section 9 prohibitions against take.
    The publication of critical habitat maps in the Federal Register 
and local newspapers and other publicity accompanying critical habitat 
designation could increase the harvest or collection threat and also 
increase the potential for vandalism during the critical habitat 
designation process.

Available Conservation Measures

    Conservation measures provided to species listed as endangered or 
threatened under the Endangered Species Act include recognition, 
recovery actions, requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions 
against certain practices. Recognition through listing encourages and 
results in conservation actions by Federal, State, and private 
agencies, groups, and individuals. The Act provides for possible land 
acquisition and cooperation with the States and requires that recovery 
actions be carried out for all listed species. The protection required 
of Federal agencies and the prohibitions against taking and harm are 
discussed, in part, below.
    Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, requires Federal agencies to 
evaluate their actions with respect to any species that is proposed or 
listed as endangered or threatened and with respect to its critical 
habitat, if any is being designated. Regulations implementing this 
interagency cooperation provision of the Act are codified at 50 CFR 
part 402. Section 7(a)(4) requires Federal agencies to confer 
informally with the Service on any action that is likely to jeopardize 
the continued existence of a proposed species or result in destruction 
or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. If a species is 
listed subsequently, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to 
ensure that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not 
likely to jeopardize the continued existence of such a species or to 
destroy or adversely modify its critical habitat. If a Federal action 
may affect a listed species or its critical habitat, the responsible 
Federal agency must enter into formal consultation with the Service.
    Federal involvement is expected to include the EPA through the 
Clean Water Act's provisions for pesticide registration and waste 
management actions. The Corps of Engineers will consider these species 
in project planning and operation, and during the permit review 
process. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will consider these 
species prior to the relicensing of hydropower dams. The Federal 
Highway Administration will consider impacts of federally funded bridge 
and road construction projects when known habitat may be impacted. 
Continuing development within the Apalachicolan Region may involve the 
Farmers Home Administration and their loan programs. The Soil 
Conservation Service will consider the species during project planning 
and under their farmer's assistance programs. The Forest Service will 
consider downstream impacts to habitat of the fat three-ridge and 
purple bankclimber when planning or implementing silvicultural, 
recreational, or other programs in lands adjacent the lower mainstem of 
the Apalachicola River, and to habitat of the purple bankclimber when 
planning or implementing these activities in lands adjacent the lower 
mainstem of the Ochlockonee River, both drainages are in the 
Apalachicola National Forest.
    The Act and implementing regulations found at 50 CFR 17.21 for 
endangered species, and 17.21 and 17.31 for threatened species set 
forth a series of general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to all 
endangered and threatened wildlife. These prohibitions, in part, make 
it illegal for any person subject to jurisdiction of the United States 
to take (includes harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, 
or collect; or attempt any of these), import or export, ship in 
interstate commerce in the course of commercial activity, or sell or 
offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce any listed species. It 
also is illegal to possess, sell, deliver, carry, transport, or ship 
any such wildlife that has been taken illegally. Certain exceptions 
apply to agents of the Service and State conservation agencies.
    Permits may be issued to carry out otherwise prohibited activities 
involving endangered or threatened wildlife species under certain 
circumstances. Regulations governing permits are at 50 CFR 17.22, 
17.23, and 17.32. Such permits are available for scientific purposes, 
to enhance the propagation or survival of the species, and/or for 
incidental take in connection with otherwise lawful activities. For 
threatened species, there are also permits for zoological exhibition, 
educational purposes, or special purposes consistent with the purpose 
of the Act.
    In some instances, permits may be issued for a specified time to 
relieve undue economic hardship that would be suffered if such relief 
were not available. However, since none of the species in this proposal 
are currently in active trade, no such permits are expected.

Public Comments Solicited

    The Service intends that any final action resulting from these 
proposals will be as accurate and as effective as possible. Therefore, 
comments or suggestions from the public, other concerned governmental 
agencies, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested 
party concerning these proposed rules are hereby solicited. Comments 
particularly are sought concerning:
    (1) Biological, commercial trade, or other relevant data concerning 
any threat (or lack thereof) to the species;
    (2) The location of any additional populations of the species and 
the reasons why any habitat should or should not be determined to be 
critical habitat as provided by section 4 of the Act;
    (3) Additional information concerning the range, distribution, and 
population size of the species; and
    (4) Current or planned activities in the subject areas and their 
possible impacts on the species.
    Final promulgation of the regulations on these species will take 
into consideration the comments and any additional information received 
by the Service, and such communication may lead to final regulations 
that differ from this proposal.
    The Act provides for a public hearing on this proposal, if 
requested. Requests must be received within 45 days of the date of 
publication of this proposal. Such requests must be made in writing and 
should be addressed to the Field Supervisor (see ADDRESSES section).

National Environmental Policy Act

    The Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that an Environmental 
Assessment, as defined under the authority of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969, need not be prepared in connection 
with regulations adopted pursuant to section 4(a) of the Endangered 
Species Act of 1973, as amended. A notice outlining the Service's 
reasons for this determination was published in the Federal Register on 
October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244).

References Cited

    A complete list of all references cited herein, as well as others, 
is available upon request from the Field Supervisor (see ADDRESSES 
section).

Author

    The primary author of this proposed rule is Robert S. Butler, U.S. 
Fish and Wildlife Service, Jacksonville Field Office, 6620 Southpoint 
Drive South, Suite 310, Jacksonville, Florida 32216 (904/232-2580).

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

    Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, and Transportation.

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

    PART 17--[AMENDED]
    Accordingly, the Service hereby proposes to amend part 17, 
subchapter B, chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, 
as set forth below:
    1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 16 U.S.C. 
4201-4245; Pub. L. 99-625, 100 Stat. 3500; unless otherwise noted.

    2. Section 17.11(h) is amended by adding the following, in 
alphabetical order under ``CLAMS'', to the List of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife:


Sec. 17.11  Endangered and threatened wildlife.

* * * * *
    (h) * * * 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      Species                                                  Vertebrate population                                                    
---------------------------------------------------      Historic range         where endangered or      Status    When listed    Critical     Special  
       Common name             Scientific name                                       threatened                                   habitat       rules   
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
          Clams                                                                                                                                         
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
Bankclimber, purple.....  Elliptoideus sloatianus.  U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA).....  NA.....................  T           ...........           NA           NA
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
Moccasinshell, Gulf.....  Medionidus pencillatus..  U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA).....  NA.....................  E           ...........           NA           NA
Moccasinshell,            Medionidus simpsonianus.  U.S.A. (FL, GA).........  NA.....................  E           ...........           NA           NA
 Ochlockonee.                                                                                                                                           
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
Pigtoe, oval............  Pleurobema pyriforme....  U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA).....  NA.....................  E           ...........           NA           NA
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
Pocketbook, shiny-rayed.  Lampsilis subangulata...  U.S.A. (AL, FL, GA).....  NA.....................  E           ...........           NA           NA
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
Slabshell, Chipola......  Elliptio chipolaensis...  U.S.A. (AL, FL).........  NA.....................  T           ...........           NA           NA
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
Three-ridge, fat........  Amblema neislerii.......  U.S.A. (FL, GA).........  NA.....................  E           ...........           NA           NA
                                                                                                                                                        
                                                                   *  *  *  *  *  *  *                                                                  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Dated: July 19, 1994
Mollie H. Beattie
Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 94-18923 Filed 8-2-94; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P