California Ecosystems - Owens Pupfish (original)

The Owens Valley is home to the critically endangered Owens Pupfish (Cyprinodon radiosus). Threatened by the introduction of sportfishing species into the Owens River, the entire population of Owens Pupfish were removed from the river and relocated to carefully protected springs nearby. Sharing the freshwater ecosystems at this western edge of the Great Basin is the Coyote Willow (Salix exigua), which is also a host plant for the Mourning Cloak butterfly (Nymphalis antiopa). The Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister) and Great Basin Snaketail dragonfly (Ophiogomphus morrisoni) also live in this delicately balanced ecosystem. Original watercolor and ink illustration on 300 lb. hot press Arches 100% cotton watercolor paper. Framed size is 24" x 24". Framed in simple black metal frame and ready to hang.