The Tar River spinymussel, Elliptio steinstansana, is the rarest of the three spined mussels. (NCRD et al 2002, Dallmeyer et al 2012; USFWS 1990). It is a small mussel that can be easily identified by its juveniles, which can have up to twelve spines (NCRD et al 2002). It has been federally listed as a species of concern since 1985, and is found only in North Carolina within the Tar-Pamlico and Neuse River watersheds (NCRD et al 2002; Lochner and NCDOT 2007; USFWS 1992). Typically, the Tar River spinymussel is found habitats with coarse sand, or gravel, and silt-free, fast-flowing waters watersheds (NCRD et al 2002; Lochner and NCDOT 2007; USFWS 1992). They are often found in smaller streams, creeks and headwaters that have closed canopies,