Rare Missouri Cave Habitat Conserved to Protect Endangered Fish

The Conservation Fund has permanently protected a critical swath of land above the Moore Cave System in Perryville, Missouri — safeguarding one of only two known entrances to this fragile underground ecosystem and the only home on earth of the federally endangered grotto sculpin, a fish no larger than a matchstick. Despite its size, the fish species serves as an indicator of the health of the entire underground ecosystem. 

For years, the site was at risk of development as nearby metro St. Louis expanded outward. The land had been held by one family for over 170 years, but when they were ready to sell, The Conservation Fund worked with partners to ensure this hidden natural treasure would not be lost.  

The project was completed in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Ozark Land Trust (which will steward the property), and others, with critical funding support from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. In addition to habitat protection, the site will serve as an educational resource, with guided tours and community engagement opportunities helping Missourians understand how surface decisions ripple through the underground world. 

By acting quickly, The Conservation Fund and its partners have ensured that one of Missouri’s most unusual — and vital — natural habitats will be protected forever.