Rare Tennessee Cave Salamander Gets Second Chance at Federal Protection

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Pink-gilled Tennessee cave salamander moves closer to federal protection after wildlife officials agree to reevaluate its status by 2029.

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Environmental groups filed a lawsuit over the 2019 protection denial, claiming violation of federal law and questionable agency quota system.

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Rare amphibian species faces critical decline with 65% population drop recorded in Meads Quarry Cave between 2004-2019.

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Urban development threatens these unique cave-dwelling creatures, with some cave locations reporting just one specimen.

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Berry Cave salamanders spend their entire lifecycle underground, sporting distinctive pink feathery gills

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Federal protection could bring additional funding to enhance Tennessee's drinking water quality.

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Wildlife Service will reevaluate species status following agreement with Southern Environmental Law Center and Center for Biological Diversity

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Legal settlement opens path to correct previous denial of protection for threatened cave species.

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Environmental advocates push for essential federal safeguards as salamander populations continue shrinking across East Tennessee caves.

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