Kretschmarr Cave Mold Beetle

(Texamaurops reddelli)

Date of Listing: Endangered, 1988

The Kretschmarr Cave Mold Beetle has short wings and long legs. It is dark brown and has no eyes. This mold beetle is found in total darkness under and among rocks and organic debris and buried in silt.

Reason for Concern:

The primary threat to the Kretschmarr Cave Mold Beetle and other endangered cave invertebrates is the loss of habitat due to urban development. Many caves have been paved over or filled in. Other caves have been altered so that they no longer provide the stable temperatures and high humidities needed to support these animals. Contamination by pollutants is also a threat to their survival.

Size:

Less than 3 millimeters in length (1/8 inch).

Diet:

Food preferences unknown.

Habitat (where it lives):

Under and among rocks or buried in silt.

Range (where found in Texas):

Edwards Plateau, Travis County, Texas.

Reproduction:

Does not have distinct seasonal cycles.

Population Numbers:

Unknown.