[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 33 (Thursday, February 17, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 8960-8967]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-03115]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Part 17
[Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2021-0133; FF09E21000 FXES1111090FEDR 223]
RIN 1018-BF29
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Technical
Amendments for Southeastern Mussels, Snails, and a Reptile
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Direct final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the revised
taxonomy of 16 wildlife species under the Endangered Species Act of
1973, as amended (Act). We are revising the List
[[Page 8961]]
of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and/or other applicable
regulations to reflect the scientifically accepted taxonomy and
nomenclature of these species.
DATES: This rule is effective May 18, 2022 without further action,
unless significant adverse comment is received by March 21, 2022. If
significant adverse comment is received, we will publish a timely
withdrawal of the rule for the appropriate species in the Federal
Register.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by one of the following methods:
(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter FWS-R4-ES-2021-0133,
which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the
Search button. On the resulting page, in the Search panel on the left
side of the screen, under the Document Type heading, click on the Rule
box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on
``Comment.''
(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments
Processing, Attn: FWS-R4-ES-2021-0133, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
MS: PRB/3W (JAO), 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.
We request that you send comments only by the methods described
above. We will post all comments on http://www.regulations.gov. This
generally means that we will post any personal information you provide
us (see Public Comments, below, for more information).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Nicole Rankin, Chief, Division of
Conservation and Classification, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Interior Regions 2 and 4, 1875 Century Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30345;
telephone 404-679-7089. Individuals who are hearing impaired or speech
impaired may call the Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8337 for TTY
(telephone typewriter or teletypewriter) assistance 24 hours a day, 7
days a week.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Purpose of Direct Final Rule and Final Action
The purpose of this direct final rule is to notify the public that
we are revising the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List)
in title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at Sec. 17.11(h)
(50 CFR 17.11(h)) and/or other applicable regulations to reflect the
scientifically accepted taxonomy and nomenclature of 13 freshwater
mussel species, 2 snail species, and 1 reptile species listed under
section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). These changes to the
List and/or other applicable regulations reflect the most recently
accepted scientific name in accordance with 50 CFR 17.11(c).
We are publishing this rule without a prior proposal because this
is a noncontroversial action that is in the best interest of the public
and should be undertaken in as timely a manner as possible. This rule
will be effective, as published in this document, on the effective date
specified in DATES, unless we receive significant adverse comments by
the comment due date specified in DATES. Significant adverse comments
are comments that provide strong justification as to why our rule
should not be adopted or why it should be changed.
If we receive significant adverse comments regarding the taxonomic
changes for any of these species, we will publish a document in the
Federal Register withdrawing this rule for the appropriate species
before the effective date, and we will publish a proposed rule to
initiate promulgation of those changes to 50 CFR 17.11(h) and/or other
applicable regulations.
Public Comments
You may submit your comments and materials regarding our direct
final rule by one of the methods listed in ADDRESSES. Please include
sufficient information with your submission (such as scientific journal
articles or other publications) to allow us to verify any scientific or
commercial information you include.
If you submit information via http://www.regulations.gov, your
entire submission--including any personal identifying information--will
be posted on the website. If your submission is made via a hardcopy
that includes personal identifying information, you may request at the
top of your document that we withhold this information from public
review. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We
will post all hardcopy submissions on http://www.regulations.gov.
Comments and materials we receive, as well as supporting
documentation we used in preparing this direct final rule, will be
available for public inspection on http://www.regulations.gov.
Background
Sections 17.11(c) and 17.12(b) of title 50 of the CFR direct us to
use the most recently accepted scientific name of any species that we
have determined to be an endangered or threatened species. Using the
best available scientific information, this direct final rule documents
taxonomic changes of the scientific names to 12 entries under
``Clams,'' 2 entries under ``Snails,'' and 1 entry under ``Reptiles''
on the List at 50 CFR 17.11(h). The basis for these taxonomic changes
is supported by published studies in peer-reviewed journals.
Accordingly, we revise the scientific names of these 15 species under
section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533) as follows:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Species name as currently listed Corrected species name
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ouachita rock-pocketbook (Arkansia Ouachita rock pocketbook
wheeleri). (Arcidens wheeleri).
Northern riffleshell (Epioblasma Northern riffleshell
torulosa rangiana). (Epioblasma rangiana).
Finelined pocketbook (Lampsilis Finelined pocketbook (Hamiota
altilis). altilis).
Orangenacre mucket (Lampsilis Orangenacre mucket (Hamiota
perovalis). perovalis).
Shinyrayed pocketbook (Lampsilis Shinyrayed pocketbook (Hamiota
subangulata). subangulata).
Choctaw bean (Villosa choctawensis).... Choctaw bean (Obovaria
choctawensis).
James spinymussel (Pleurobema collina). James spinymussel (Parvaspina
collina).
Tar River spinymussel (Elliptio Tar River spinymussel
steinstansana). (Parvaspina steinstansana).
Cumberland pigtoe (Pleurobema gibberum) Cumberland pigtoe (Pleuronaia
gibber).
Round ebonyshell (Fusconaia rotulata).. Round ebonyshell (Reginaia
rotulata).
Cumberland monkeyface (Quadrula Cumberland monkeyface
intermedia). (Theliderma intermedia).
Appalachian monkeyface (pearlymussel) Appalachian monkeyface
(Quadrula sparsa). (Theliderma sparsa).
Royal marstonia (Pyrgulopsis Royal marstonia (Marstonia
ogmorhaphe). ogmorhaphe).
Armored marstonia (snail) (Pyrgulopsis Armored marstonia (Marstonia
(= Marstonia) pachyta). pachyta).
Eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon corais Eastern indigo snake
couperi). (Drymarchon couperi).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 8962]]
We make these changes to the List at 50 CFR 17.11(h) to reflect the
most recently accepted scientific name in accordance with 50 CFR
17.11(c).
In addition, while the List provides the correct scientific name
for the fluted kidneyshell, Ptychobranchus subtentus, its critical
habitat designation at 50 CFR 17.95(f) does not. We are correcting the
scientific name of this species in its critical habitat entry, as
explained below.
Taxonomic Classification
Ouachita Rock Pocketbook
On October 23, 1991, we published a final rule (56 FR 54950)
listing the Ouachita rock-pocketbook (Arkansia wheeleri) as an
endangered species. At the time of listing and preparation of the
recovery plan, standard classifications of mollusks from the United
States and Canada (Turgeon et al. 1988, p. 29; Turgeon et al. 1998, p.
32; Williams et al. 1993, p. 11) placed the Ouachita rock pocketbook in
the genus Arkansia. Williams et al. (2017) published an updated
standard list of freshwater mussels of the United States and Canada, in
which they made Arkansia a synonym of Arcidens and thus reassigned the
Ouachita rock pocketbook to the latter genus. Williams et al. (2017, p.
46) based their actions on the analyses by Inoue et al. (2014, entire)
and the prior recommendations of Clarke (1981, pp. 85-89) and Graf and
Cummings (2007, p. 305). This taxonomic change does not affect the
range or endangered status of the Ouachita rock pocketbook.
Northern Riffleshell
On January 22, 1993, we published a final rule (58 FR 5638) listing
the northern riffleshell (Epioblasma torulosa rangiana) as an
endangered species. It was taxonomically categorized as a subspecies
(Epioblasma torulosa rangiana) at the time of listing and recovery plan
development. The taxonomy of the northern riffleshell and related taxa
has been variable due to uncertain species' designations, a general
change in the definition of the species' concept in freshwater mussels
(Williams et al. 2017, p. 34), and ecophenotypic variation
(characteristics modified by environmental factors). The decline and
extinction of many Epioblasma occurred before genetic techniques became
available to provide data that could be informative to the species'
taxonomy. At the time we listed the northern riffleshell as endangered
as Epioblasma torulosa rangiana, it was one of three subspecies, with
the tubercled blossom, Epioblasma torulosa, and green blossom,
Epioblasma torulosa gubernaculum (Turgeon et al. 1998, pp. 34, 182).
Cummings and Berlocher (1990, p. 92) found no evidence of
intergradation between E. t. torulosa and E. t. rangiana, and both taxa
co-occurred at many sites; based on this evidence, Williams et al.
(2017, p. 48) elevated these subspecies to species status. This
taxonomic change does not affect the range or endangered status of the
northern riffleshell.
Hamiota
The genus Hamiota was recently described to accommodate a
monophyletic clade (a group descended from a common ancestor) of four
species that produce superconglutinates (enclosing their larvae in a
minnow-like lure). The four species previously recognized under
Lampsilis are: L. altilis, L. australis, L. perovalis, and L.
subangulata (Roe and Hartfield 2005, entire; Roe et al. 2001, pp. 2230-
2232). The new genus has been recognized within recent taxonomic
publications (e.g., Williams et al. 2008; Williams et al. 2017).
Williams et al. (2017, p. 49) recognize the reassignment of these
species from Lampsilis to Hamiota. The southern sandshell (Hamiota
australis) is already recognized as such on the List. The remaining
three species are discussed below.
Finelined Pocketbook
On March 17, 1993, we published a final rule (58 FR 14330) listing
the finelined pocketbook (Lampsilis altilis) as a threatened species.
On July 1, 2004, we published a final rule (69 FR 40084) designating
critical habitat for the finelined pocketbook. Williams et al. (2017,
p. 49) reassigned the scientific name for the finelined pocketbook from
Lampsilis to Hamiota altilis. With this rule, in addition to amending
the scientific name of the species in the List, we correct the
scientific name for this species in its critical habitat designation at
50 CFR 17.95(f). This taxonomic change does not affect the range,
threatened status, or designated critical habitat of the finelined
pocketbook.
Orangenacre Mucket
On March 17, 1993, we published a final rule (58 FR 14330) listing
the orangenacre mucket (Lampsilis perovalis) as a threatened species.
On July 1, 2004, we published a final rule (69 FR 40084) designating
critical habitat for the orangenacre mucket. In the March 17, 1993,
final rule, we also recognized the following names as synonyms of
Lampsilis perovalis: Unio perovalis Conrad, Unio doliaris Lea, Unio
placitus Lea, and Unio spilimani Lea. Williams et al. (2017, p. 49)
reassigned the scientific name for the orangenacre mucket from
Lampsilis to Hamiota perovalis. With this rule, in addition to amending
the scientific name of the species in the List, we correct the
scientific name for this species in its critical habitat designation at
50 CFR 17.95(f). This taxonomic change does not affect the range,
threatened status, or designated critical habitat of the orangenacre
mucket.
Shinyrayed Pocketbook
On March 16, 1998, we published a final rule (63 FR 12664) listing
the shinyrayed pocketbook (Lampsilis subangulata) as an endangered
species. On November 15, 2007, we published a final rule (72 FR 64286)
designating critical habitat for the species. Williams et al. (2017, p.
49) reassigned the scientific name for the shinyrayed pocketbook from
Lampsilis to Hamiota subangulata. With this rule, in addition to
amending the scientific name of the species in the List, we correct the
scientific name for this species in its critical habitat designation at
50 CFR 17.95(f). This taxonomic change does not affect the range,
endangered status, or designated critical habitat of the shinyrayed
pocketbook.
Choctaw Bean
On October 10, 2012, we published a final rule (77 FR 61664)
listing the Choctaw bean (Villosa choctawensis) as an endangered
species and designating critical habitat for the species. Turgeon et
al. (1998, p. 37) recognized 17 species and 1 subspecies of Villosa.
The genus is polyphyletic, with species occurring in as many as seven
different clades within the Lampsilini (Kuehnl 2009; entire). Based on
molecular data (Kuehnl 2009, pp. 100, 106-107; Inoue et al. 2013,
entire) and marsupial morphology (Williams et al. 2011, p. 22),
Williams et al. (2017, pp. 53-54) reassigned Villosa choctawensis to
Obovaria. Evidence also supports reassignment to Obovaria of species
recognized by Turgeon et al. (1998) under other genera. Williams et al.
(2017, p. 50) reassigned the scientific name for the Choctaw bean from
Villosa to Obovaria choctawensis. With this rule, in addition to
amending the scientific name of the species in the List, we correct the
scientific name for this species in its critical habitat designation at
50 CFR 17.95(f). This taxonomic change does not affect the range,
endangered status, or designated critical habitat of the Choctaw bean.
[[Page 8963]]
Spinymussel
The new genus Parvaspina was recently described to accommodate a
monophyletic clade of two species previously recognized as Pleurobema
collina and Elliptio steinstansana (Perkins et al. 2017, entire).
Williams et al. (2017, pp. 47, 51) reassigned the scientific name for
the James spinymussel from Pleurobema to Parvaspina collina and the Tar
River spinymussel from Elliptio to Parvaspina steinstansana.
James Spinymussel
On July 22, 1988, we published a final rule (53 FR 27689) listing
the James spinymussel (Pleurobema collina) as an endangered species.
Turgeon et al. (1998, pp. 32, 183-184) recognized 32 species of
Pleurobema, making it one of the largest unionid genera. Molecular data
largely support the monophyly of Pleurobema as depicted by Turgeon et
al. (1998, pp. 32, 183-184) with two exceptions. Three studies support
reassignment of Pleurobema to Parvaspina collina (Campbell et al. 2008,
pp. 712, 719; Campbell and Lydeard 2012b, pp. 20, 24-26, 29, 34;
Perkins et al. 2017, entire). This taxonomic change does not affect the
range or endangered status of the James spinymussel.
Tar River Spinymussel
On June 27, 1985, we published a final rule (50 FR 26572) listing
the Tar River spinymussel (Elliptio (Canthyria) steinstansana) as an
endangered species. The species recovery plan (1987) also uses the
scientific name Elliptio (Canthyria) steinstansana. Turgeon et al.
(1998, pp. 33, 181) recognized 36 species in the genus Elliptio, making
it the largest unionid genus in the United States and Canada. Recent
molecular studies have largely supported the monophyly of Elliptio with
two exceptions, including the Tar River spinymussel (Campbell and
Lydeard 2012b, p. 20; Perkins et al. 2017, entire). Williams et al.
(2017, pp. 38, 41) recognize the reassignment of Elliptio to Parvaspina
steinstansana based on molecular data (Perkins et al. 2017, entire).
This taxonomic change does not affect the range or endangered status of
the Tar River spinymussel.
Cumberland Pigtoe
On May 7, 1991, we published a final rule (56 FR 21084) listing the
Cumberland pigtoe (Pleurobema gibberum) as an endangered species. The
genus Pleuronaia was created as a subgenus by Frierson (1927, p. 58)
but has since been elevated to genus level based on phylogenetic
analysis of DNA sequence data (Campbell et al. 2005, p. 147) and shell
morphology (Williams et al. 2008). Williams et al. (2017, pp. 42, 51)
reassign the Cumberland pigtoe from Pleurobema to Pleuronaia and
recognize it as Pleuronaia gibber. This taxonomic change does not
affect the range or endangered status of the Cumberland pigtoe.
Fluted Kidneyshell
On September 26, 2013, we published a final rule (78 FR 59269)
listing the fluted kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus subtentum) as an
endangered species and designating critical habitat for the species.
Williams et al. (2017, pp. 42, 51) lists the gender agreement spelling
correction of Ptychobranchus subtentum to P. subtentus following Lee
(2008, p. 262). The taxonomic change to Ptychobranchus subtentus was
made to the List with a final rule we published on August 4, 2016 (81
FR 51550); however, that rule did not also change the scientific name
of the species in its critical habitat designation. We are, therefore,
correcting the scientific name of the fluted kidneyshell in its
critical habitat designation at 50 CFR 17.95(f) with this direct final
rule. This change does not affect the range, endangered status, or
designated critical habitat of the fluted kidneyshell.
Round Ebonyshell
On October 10, 2012, we published a final rule (77 FR 61664)
listing the round ebonyshell (Fusconaia rotulata) as an endangered
species and designating critical habitat for the species. The round
ebonyshell has been assigned to a number of genera since discovery.
Based on a recent molecular study, Fusconaia rotulata was reassigned to
the new genus Reginaia (Campbell and Lydeard 2012a, pp. 20, 25-26, 34).
Williams et al. 2017 (p. 50) recognized the Reginaia as the new genus
for this species. With this rule, in addition to amending the
scientific name of the species in the List, we correct the scientific
name for this species in its critical habitat designation at 50 CFR
17.95(f). This taxonomic change does not affect the range, endangered
status, or designated critical habitat of the round ebonyshell.
Theliderma
The genus Theliderma was created by Graf and Cummings (2007, p.
308) to accommodate five species with a common ancestor: Quadrula
cylindrica, Q. intermedia, Q. metanevra, Q. sparsa, and Q. stapes (Serb
et al. 2003, p. 9). Williams et al. (2017, p. 52) recognize placement
of all five of these species in Theliderma.
Cumberland and Appalachian Monkeyface
On June 14, 1976, we published a final rule (41 FR 24062) listing
the Cumberland monkeyface and Appalachian monkeyface (Quadrula
intermedia and Quadrula sparsa, respectively) as endangered species.
Williams et al. (2017, pp. 43, 52) reassigned the Cumberland monkeyface
and Appalachian monkeyface to the genus Theliderma (Serb et al. 2003,
p. 9; Campbell and Lydeard 2012b, p. 33; see also Graf and Cummings
2007, p. 308) and recognized the scientific names Theliderma intermedia
and Theliderma sparsa, respectively. These pearlymussels have
nonessential experimental populations designated at 50 CFR 17.85(a)
(for Cumberland monkeyface) and 17.85(b) (for both Appalachian
monkeyface and Cumberland monkeyface); with this rule, in addition to
amending the scientific name of the species in the List, we correct the
scientific name for these species at 50 CFR 17.85(a) and (b). This
taxonomic change does not affect the range, endangered status, or
nonessential experimental populations for these mussels.
Royal Marstonia
On April 15, 1994, we published a final rule (59 FR 17994) listing
the royal marstonia (Pyrgulopsis ogmorhaphe) as an endangered species.
The nomenclature for the royal marstonia has changed since listing.
Thompson and Herschler (2002, pp. 269-270) re-evaluated eastern North
American species assigned to Pyrgulopsis and, based on strongly
differentiated morphological characteristics between eastern and
western congeners of Pyrgulopsis, recognized them as distinct species
of the genus Marstonia. Similarly, Johnson et al. (2013, p. 274) used
M. ogmorhaphe in their Conservation Status of Freshwater Gastropods of
Canada and United States. This taxonomic change does not affect the
range or endangered status of royal marstonia.
Armored Marstonia
On February 25, 2000, we published a final rule (65 FR 10033)
listing the armored marstonia (snail) (Pyrgulopsis (= Marstonia)
pachyta) as an endangered species. A subsequent study showed that
eastern and western Pyrgulopsis were consistently differentiable based
on anatomical characters (Thompson and Hershler 2002, pp. 269-270).
Therefore, the eastern species of Pyrgulopis was placed in the genus
Marstonia (Thompson and
[[Page 8964]]
Hershler 2002, pp. 269-270), and is the currently accepted nomenclature
(Johnson et al. 2013, p. 274). This taxonomic change does not affect
the range or endangered status of the armored marstonia.
Eastern Indigo Snake
On January 31, 1978, we published a final rule (43 FR 4026) listing
the eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon corais couperi) as a threatened
species. Collins (1991, p. 43) elevated this lineage to species status
based on geographic isolation and morphology. Subsequent work supported
this designation, and the eastern indigo snake was accepted by the
scientific community as its own species, Drymarchon couperi
(W[uuml]ster et al. 2001, p. 163; Crother et al. 2012, p. 59). Ongoing
genetic studies further evaluating taxonomic classification suggest
potential speciation within Drymarchon couperi (Krysko et al. 2016,
entire); however, the scientific community has not yet examined and
accepted the eastern indigo snake taxonomic change suggested by Krysko
et al. (2016). Currently, the eastern indigo snake is accepted by the
scientific community as a separate species, Drymarchon couperi (Crother
et al. 2012, p. 59). This taxonomic change does not affect the range or
threatened status of the eastern indigo snake.
Required Determinations
Clarity of the Rule
We are required by Executive Orders 12866 and 12988 and by the
Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, to write all rules in plain
language. This means that each rule we publish must:
(a) Be logically organized;
(b) Use the active voice to address readers directly;
(c) Use clear language rather than jargon;
(d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and
(e) Use lists and tables wherever possible.
If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us
comments by one of the methods listed in ADDRESSES. To help us to
revise this rule, your comments should be as specific as possible. For
example, you should tell us the paragraphs that are unclearly written,
which sections or sentences are too long, the sections where you feel
lists or tables would be useful, etc.
National Environmental Policy Act
We have determined that we do not need to prepare environmental
assessments or environmental impact statements, as defined under the
authority of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C.
4321 et seq.), in connection with regulations adopted under section
4(a) of the Endangered Species Act. We published a notice outlining our
reasons for this determination in the Federal Register on October 25,
1983 (48 FR 49244).
Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes
In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994,
``Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal
Governments'' (59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175, and the Department
of the Interior's manual at 512 DM 2, we readily acknowledge our
responsibility to communicate meaningfully with recognized Federal
Tribes on a government-to-government basis. In accordance with
Secretarial Order 3206 of June 5, 1997 (American Indian Tribal Rights,
Federal-Tribal Trust Responsibilities, and the Endangered Species Act),
we readily acknowledge our responsibilities to work directly with
Tribes in developing programs for healthy ecosystems, to acknowledge
that Tribal lands are not subject to the same controls as Federal
public lands, to remain sensitive to Indian culture, and to make
information available to Tribes. We have determined that this rule will
not affect Tribes or Tribal lands.
References Cited
A complete list of the referenced materials is available at http://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2021-0133 or upon request
from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT).
List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17
Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Plants,
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Transportation, Wildlife.
Regulation Promulgation
For the reasons given in the preamble, we amend part 17, subchapter
B of chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as set
forth below:
PART 17--ENDANGERED AND THREATENED WILDLIFE
0
1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 16. U.S.C. 1361-1407; 1531-1544; 4201-4245, unless
otherwise noted.
0
2. In Sec. 17.11 amend the table in paragraph (h), the List of
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife by:
0
a. Under REPTILES, revising the entry for ``Snake, eastern indigo'';
0
b. Under CLAMS, revising the entries for ``Bean, Choctaw'',
``Ebonyshell, round'', ``Monkeyface, Appalachian (pearlymussel)'',
``Monkeyface, Cumberland'', ``Mucket, orangenacre'', ``Pigtoe,
Cumberland'', ``Pocketbook, finelined'', ``Pocketbook, shinyrayed'',
``Riffleshell, northern'', ``Rock-pocketbook, Ouachita'',
``Spinymussel, James'', and ``Spinymussel, Tar River''; and
0
c. Under SNAILS, revising the entries for ``Marstonia, armored
(snail)'' and ``Marstonia, royal''.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 17.11 Endangered and threatened wildlife.
* * * * *
(h) * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Listing citations
Common name Scientific name Where listed Status and applicable rules
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REPTILES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Snake, eastern indigo............. Drymarchon couperi.. Wherever found...... T 43 FR 4026, 1/31/
1978.
* * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLAMS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 8965]]
* * * * * * *
Bean, Choctaw..................... Obovaria Wherever found...... E 77 FR 61663, 10/10/
choctawensis. 2012; 50 CFR
17.95(f).\CH\
* * * * * * *
Ebonyshell, round................. Reginaia rotulata... Wherever found...... E 58 FR 14330, 3/17/
1993; 50 CFR
17.95(f).\CH\
* * * * * * *
Monkeyface, Appalachian Theliderma sparsa... Wherever found, E 41 FR 24062, 6/14/
(pearlymussel). except where listed 1976.
as an experimental
population.
Monkeyface, Appalachian Theliderma sparsa... U.S.A. (TN-- XN 72 FR 52434, 9/13/
(pearlymussel). specified portions 2007; 50 CFR
of the French Broad 17.85(b).\10j\
and Holston Rivers;
see Sec.
17.85(b)(1)).
Monkeyface, Cumberland............ Theliderma Wherever found, E 41 FR 24062, 6/14/
intermedia. except where listed 1976.
as an experimental
population.
Monkeyface, Cumberland............ Theliderma U.S.A. (AL-- XN 66 FR 32250, 6/14/
intermedia. specified portions 2001; 50 CFR
of the Tennessee 17.85(a).\10j\
River; see Sec.
17.85(a)(1)).
Monkeyface, Cumberland............ Theliderma U.S.A. (TN-- XN 72 FR 52434, 9/13/
intermedia. specified portions 2007; 50 CFR
of the French Broad 17.85(b).\10j\
and Holston Rivers;
see Sec.
17.85(b)(1)).
* * * * * * *
Mucket, orangenacre............... Hamiota perovalis... Wherever found...... T 58 FR 14330, 3/17/
1993; 50 CFR
17.95(f).\CH\
* * * * * * *
Pigtoe, Cumberland................ Pleuronaia gibber... Wherever found...... E 56 FR 21084, 5/7/
1991.
* * * * * * *
Pocketbook, finelined............. Hamiota altilis..... Wherever found...... T 58 FR 14330, 3/17/
1993; 50 CFR
17.95(f).\CH\
Pocketbook, shinyrayed............ Hamiota subangulata. Wherever found...... E 63 FR 12664, 3/16/
1998; 50 CFR
17.95(f).\CH\
* * * * * * *
Riffleshell, northern............. Epioblasma rangiana. Wherever found...... E 58 FR 5638, 1/22/
1993.
* * * * * * *
Rock pocketbook, Ouachita......... Arcidens wheeleri... Wherever found...... E 56 FR 54950, 10/23/
1991.
* * * * * * *
Spinymussel, James................ Parvaspina collina.. Wherever found...... E 53 FR 27689, 7/22/
1988.
Spinymussel, Tar River............ Parvaspina Wherever found...... E 50 FR 26572, 6/27/
steinstansana. 1985.
* * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SNAILS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Marstonia, armored (snail)........ Marstonia pachyta... Wherever found...... E 65 FR 10033, 2/25/
2000.
Marstonia, royal.................. Marstonia ogmorhaphe Wherever found...... E 59 FR 17994, 4/15/
1994.
* * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0
3. Amend Sec. 17.85 by:
0
a. In the introductory text of paragraph (a), revising the entry for
``Cumberland monkeyface (pearlymussel)''; and
0
b. In the introductory text of paragraph (b), revising the entries for
``Appalachian monkeyface (pearlymussel)'' and ``Cumberland monkeyface
(pearlymussel)''.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 17.85 Special rules--invertebrates.
(a) * * *
[[Page 8966]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Common name Scientific name
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Cumberland monkeyface (pearlymussel)... Theliderma intermedia.
* * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
(b) * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Common name Scientific name
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Appalachian monkeyface (pearlymussel).. Theliderma sparsa.
Cumberland monkeyface (pearlymussel)... Theliderma intermedia.
* * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0
4. Amend Sec. 17.95(f) by:
0
a. In the entry for ``Eleven Mobile River Basin Mussel Species:
Southern acornshell (Epioblasma othcaloogensis), ovate clubshell
(Pleurobema perovatum), southern clubshell (Pleurobema decisum), upland
combshell (Epioblasma metastriata), triangular kidneyshell
(Ptychobranchus greenii), Alabama moccasinshell (Medionidus
acutissimus), Coosa moccasinshell (Medionidus parvulus), orange-nacre
mucket (Lampsilis perovalis), dark pigtoe (Pleurobema furvum), southern
pigtoe (Pleurobema georgianum), and fine-lined pocketbook (Lampsilis
altilis)'', revising the heading, the introductory text to paragraph
(1), and the entries for ``Orange-nacre mucket (Lampsilis perovalis)''
and ``Fine-lined pocketbook (Lampsilis altilis)'' in the table at
paragraph (2)(ii);
0
b. In the entry for ``Seven mussel species (in four northeast Gulf of
Mexico drainages): Purple bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus), Gulf
moccasinshell (Medionidus penicillatus), Ochlockonee moccasinshell
(Medionidus simpsonianus), oval pigtoe (Pleurobema pyriforme),
shinyrayed pocketbook (Lampsilis subangulata), Chipola slabshell
(Elliptio chipolaensis), and fat threeridge (Amblema neislerii)'',
revising the heading, the introductory text to paragraph (2), and the
entry for ``Shinyrayed pocketbook (Lampsilis subangulata)'' in the
table at paragraph (6);
0
c. In the entry for ``Eight mussel species in four northeast Gulf of
Mexico drainages: the Choctaw bean (Villosa choctawensis), round
ebonyshell (Fusconaia rotulata), southern kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus
jonesi), Alabama pearlshell (Margaritifera marrianae), fuzzy pigtoe
(Pleurobema strodeanum), narrow pigtoe (Fusconaia escambia), tapered
pigtoe (Fusconaia burkei), and southern sandshell (Hamiota
australis)'', by revising the heading; and
0
d. In the entry for ``Fluted Kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus subtentum)''
by revising the heading.
The revisions read as follows:
Sec. 17.95 Critical habitat--fish and wildlife.
* * * * *
(f) * * *
Eleven Mobile River Basin Mussel Species: Southern acornshell
(Epioblasma othcaloogensis), ovate clubshell (Pleurobema perovatum),
southern clubshell (Pleurobema decisum), upland combshell (Epioblasma
metastriata), triangular kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus greenii), Alabama
moccasinshell (Medionidus acutissimus), Coosa moccasinshell (Medionidus
parvulus), orangenacre mucket (Hamiota perovalis), dark pigtoe
(Pleurobema furvum), southern pigtoe (Pleurobema georgianum), and
finelined pocketbook (Hamiota altilis)
(1) The primary constituent elements essential for the conservation
of the southern acornshell (Epioblasma othcaloogensis), ovate clubshell
(Pleurobema perovatum), southern clubshell (Pleurobema decisum), upland
combshell (Epioblasma metastriata), triangular kidneyshell
(Ptychobranchus greenii), Alabama moccasinshell (Medionidus
acutissimus), Coosa moccasinshell (Medionidus parvulus), orangenacre
mucket (Hamiota perovalis), dark pigtoe (Pleurobema furvum), southern
pigtoe (Pleurobema georgianum), and finelined pocketbook (Hamiota
altilis) are those habitat components that support feeding, sheltering,
reproduction, and physical features for maintaining the natural
processes that support these habitat components. The primary
constituent elements include:
* * * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Species Critical habitat units States
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Orangenacre mucket (Hamiota Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, AL, MS.
perovalis). 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,
12, 13, 14, 15.
* * * * * * *
Finelined pocketbook (Hamiota Units 13, 16, 17, 18, AL, GA, TN.
altilis). 19, 20, 21, 22, 23,
24, 25, 26.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
Seven mussel species (in four northeast Gulf of Mexico drainages):
Purple bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus), Gulf moccasinshell
[[Page 8967]]
(Medionidus penicillatus), Ochlockonee moccasinshell (Medionidus
simpsonianus), oval pigtoe (Pleurobema pyriforme), shinyrayed
pocketbook (Hamiota subangulata), Chipola slabshell (Elliptio
chipolaensis), and fat threeridge (Amblema neislerii)
* * * * *
(2) The primary constituent elements of critical habitat for the
purple bankclimber (Elliptoideus sloatianus), Gulf moccasinshell
(Medionidus penicillatus), Ochlockonee moccasinshell (Medionidus
simpsonianus), oval pigtoe (Pleurobema pyriforme), shinyrayed
pocketbook (Hamiota subangulata), Chipola slabshell (Elliptio
chipolaensis), and fat threeridge (Amblema neislerii) are:
* * * * *
(6) * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Species Critical habitat units States
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Shinyrayed pocketbook (Hamiota Units 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, AL, FL, GA.
subangulata). 7, 9.
* * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
Eight mussel species in four northeast Gulf of Mexico drainages:
Choctaw bean (Obovaria choctawensis), round ebonyshell (Reginaia
rotulata), southern kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus jonesi), Alabama
pearlshell (Margaritifera marrianae), fuzzy pigtoe (Pleurobema
strodeanum), narrow pigtoe (Fusconaia escambia), tapered pigtoe
(Fusconaia burkei), and southern sandshell (Hamiota australis)
* * * * *
Fluted Kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus subtentus)
* * * * *
Martha Williams,
Principal Deputy Director, Exercising the Delegated Authority of the
Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-03115 Filed 2-16-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P