In April 2025, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed adding the Fish Lake Valley tui chub to the endangered species list. This tiny olive-colored fish, found only in Nevada near the California border, is now living in just one pond. It used to swim in six different springs. Experts say this fish is in danger mainly because of heavy groundwater pumping for agricultural purposes, like growing alfalfa. The proposal started after a 2023 lawsuit by the Center for Biological Diversity. A settlement from that case required the government to make a decision by this year. The agency said the fish’s decline is caused by habitat loss, climate change, invasive species, and land-use activities.

The endangered listing would make it illegal to kill, move, or trade the tui chub. Environmental groups described the fish as a key part of the desert ecosystem. The group’s director said that if the tui chub disappears, the area’s wetlands could also collapse. The water in the pond is also needed by other desert animals like bighorn sheep and pronghorn antelope. Meanwhile, the Trump administration proposed a new rule that could redefine what “harm” means under the Endangered Species Act. Critics say this rule may undermine protections and lead to irreversible damage. They also believe the fish’s situation is a warning about the effects of climate change and poor water use. The proposal is now open for public comments for 60 days.