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Gypsum Rich Springs and Pupfish

Found in only one location in Mexico, the Río Verde and associated waters and listed as vulnerable by the ‘IUCN’. The checkered pupfish (Cualac tessellatus) is a species of Pupfish endemic to San Luis, in Mexico.

Named due to the distinctive checkered pattern found on their dorsal fin, typically on males. They grow to a maximum length of 8 cm or so. It is the only known member of its genus.

 

Original image by: Fishspeciation

Cualac tessellatus checkered pupfish - close up. Original Image by Fishspeciation.
San Luis - Mexico. Origina phot by Lucy Nieto

Habitat

The checkered pupfishes natural environment comprises of hard to very hard water. The springs in which these fish are endemic too are fed by geothermal activity. Ensuring the water maintains a warm temperature year round (between 26-30°C).

Habitat Geology

The geology of the Río Verde valley exhibited a large presence of Calcium sulphate. Known commonly as gypsum. As such, this minerals presence in the water has become an important factor to the fishes survival, including laying its reproduction.

 

Image by: Lucy Nieto

Gypsum

 

Gypsum itself is am often white mineral with a silky lustre and prismatic crystal habit. Fairly common and found in many countries. It is an evaporite mineral, found in large evaporate beds. Used commonly in construction as well as artistic sculptures. It is commonly known by many as plaster.

gypsum before tank placement
Image courtesy of Whipsnade Zoo - Ectotherms
checkered pupfish rearing resized 1
Image courtesy of Whipsnade Zoo - Ectotherms

Whipsnade Zoo and the ZSL.

 

In Mid 2024, Axial Exploration and Drilling Supplies Ltd was requested to source and supply pure gypsum for a breeding project taking place at Whipsnade Zoo. Owned and operated by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). The zoo is notable, for being a charity devoted to the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.

Pure gypsum pieces
Image - Axial Exploration and Drilling Supplies Ltd
The half tonne gypsum packed and palletised. Awaiting collection by our hauliers
Image - Axial Exploration and Drilling Supplies Ltd
Image courtesy of Whipsnade Zoo - Ectotherms
Image courtesy of Whipsnade Zoo - Ectotherms

Further Information and Donations

 

If you wish to find out more about the the work Whipsnade Zoo and the Zoological Society of London undertake in relation to the conservation of the Checkered Pupfish. You may visit their website HERE.

 

If you are interested in supporting the ZSL in their conservation efforts. You may find further details HERE.

 

 

Disclaimer:

Whipsnade Zoo and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) are not affiliated with Axial Exploraiton and Drilling Supplies Ltd.

Posted by: Caitlin Palmer – Content Creator