A hidden heelsplitter: Distribution of an undescribed endemic freshwater mussel in the Barrens Plateau
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Abstract
Malacologists generally acknowledge that the Alasminota holstonia (Tennessee Heelsplitter) populations in the Caney Fork, Elk, and Duck river drainages in the Barrens Plateau region of middle Tennessee likely represent a closely related, but distinct, species, collectively referred to as Alasminota sp. (Barrens Heelsplitter). Recent surveys indicate that the species persists in at least 5 streams: Collins River, Pocahontas Branch, Witty Creek, and Pepper Hollow Branch in the Caney Fork River drainage and Little Duck River in the Duck River drainage, with evidence of recruitment in 2 of these streams. These findings suggest a restricted distribution and highlight the need for taxonomic assessment through genetic analysis. If elevated to species status, the Barrens Heelsplitter would represent a narrow endemic that may require conservation attention, underscoring the ecological significance of Tennessee's Barrens Plateau Region.
Suggested Citation
Womble, K.I., Rosenberger, A.E., Henderson, A.R., 2025, A hidden heelsplitter: Distribution of an undescribed endemic freshwater mussel in the Barrens Plateau: Southeastern Naturalist, v. 24, no. sp13, p. 17-26, https://doi.org/10.1656/058.024.0sp1302.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | A hidden heelsplitter: Distribution of an undescribed endemic freshwater mussel in the Barrens Plateau |
| Series title | Southeastern Naturalist |
| DOI | 10.1656/058.024.0sp1302 |
| Volume | 24 |
| Issue | sp13 |
| Publication Date | November 11, 2025 |
| Year Published | 2025 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | BioOne |
| Contributing office(s) | Coop Res Unit Atlanta |
| Description | 10 p. |
| First page | 17 |
| Last page | 26 |
| Country | United States |
| State | Tennessee |
| Other Geospatial | Barrens Plateau region |