06/03/2026
Good conservation decisions start with the most current and reliable biodiversity information, and NatureServe provides this. The Map of Biodiversity Importance uses data science, modern modeling techniques, and web-based collaborative tools to deliver a significant advance on some of the most vital information we need to conserve at-risk species and prevent extinctions. Spatially explicit distributions for at-risk species can inform field surveys, support restoration and mitigation options, reduce unnecessary conflict, and improve conservation outcomes.
Take the case of the critically imperiled (G1) Jollyville Plateau salamander, which is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, and its potential impact on road construction projects planned by the Texas Department of Transportation in the area surrounding Austin, Texas. If the coarse range map from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is used (pale orange polygon), there is a lot of apparent conflict between transportation infrastructure and this very unusual and threatened salamander. But we know the salamander has distinct habitat requirements, and NatureServe’s model refines the salamander range to just the areas where there is likely suitable habitat (yellow and pink shaded area). Now, there is better guidance for salamander surveys. There is much less conflict with road construction, and where conflict has been identified, avoidance and/or mitigation options are more informed.
Fun Fact: The Jollyville Plateau salamander is perennibranchiate, meaning it retains permanent gills throughout its life.
Jollyville Plateau salamander (Eurycea tonkawae), NatureServe Global Conservation Status: Critically Imperiled (G1); ESA Listing Status: Threatened. Photo by Piershendrie, CC BY-SA 3.0 .
