Devils Hole pupfish population plummets to 38 after earthquakes

Two recent earthquakes in December and February triggered waves in Devils Hole at Death Valley National Park, devastating the habitat of the endangered Devils Hole pupfish and reducing their population from 191 to just 38. The quakes displaced algae, organic material, and fish eggs from a crucial spawning and feeding shelf, resulting in critical food shortages for the already rare species. In response, biologists from several agencies introduced 19 captive-raised pupfish into the wild population for the first time and supplemented their diet to support recovery until natural food sources rebound. Despite the severe decline, officials report encouraging signs, such as normal to high spawning activity, viable eggs, and improving habitat conditions as algae growth returns. Long-term conservation strategies and the maintenance of a captive population at Ash Meadows Fish Conservation Facility have provided a critical safety net for the species. The next population assessment is scheduled for the fall, as recovery efforts continue.