Horseshoe Crabs Safe from Endangered List: Petition Falls Short
Published Date: 2/18/2026
Notice
Summary
The government reviewed requests to protect the Atlantic horseshoe crab as endangered but found there isn’t enough solid evidence to do so right now. This means no new rules or protections will happen immediately, keeping things steady for fishermen and businesses. The decision was made quickly—within 90 days—to keep everyone informed and on track.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
90‑Day Finding: No ESA Listing Now
On February 18, 2026, NMFS found that two petitions to list the Atlantic horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) and designate critical habitat did not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating listing may be warranted. The petitions were received December 21, 2023 (Friends of Animals) and February 27, 2024 (Center for Biological Diversity).
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