SafePlants

Fish Slough Milkvetch

The Fish Slough milkvetch is a rare plant found in a specific area of California. Understanding its characteristics and habitat is crucial for its conservation.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis
• Common Names: Fish Slough milkvetch, Fish Slough Milk-vetch

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Species: Astragalus lentiginosus
• Variety: Astragalus lentiginosus var. piscinensis Barneby
• The text also mentions Astragalus lentiginosus Douglas ex Hook. var. piscinensis Barneby.
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)
• A related variety mentioned is: Astragalus lentiginosus var. ambiguus Barneby &#8211 freckled milkvetch

Distribution and Habitat

• The Fish Slough milkvetch is endemic to the Fish Slough area in east-central California, specifically at the north end of the Owens Valley.
• It is found nowhere else in the world.
• The plant thrives in the unique desert wetland conditions of Fish Slough.
• The Fish Slough Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) provides habitat for this species.

Ecological Role

• The plant is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
• It has evolved to fit the unique conditions at Fish Slough.
• The text mentions the importance of understanding the causes of its population decline and methods for successful field reintroduction.

Conservation Status

• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated 8,007 acres of critical habitat for the Fish Slough milkvetch.
• It is listed as Federally Threatened.

Further Information

• The text mentions the California Department of Fish and Wildlife RareFind 5 and California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento, California.
• Encyclopedia.com is listed as a resource.
• Fred Watson of California State University Monterey Bay is credited for a photo.