ENEndangered

Albirregas climbing catfish

Astroblepus orientalis

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Astroblepus orientalis faces severe pressure from habitat degradation in its restricted Andean range, where deforestation and agricultural expansion have fragmented the pristine mountain streams it requires. Mining activities and water pollution from agricultural runoff further compromise the water quality essential for this specialized catfish. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering precipitation patterns and stream temperatures in its high-altitude habitat.
Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits fast-flowing, oxygen-rich mountain streams and rivers in the Andean highlands, typically at elevations between 1,500-3,000 meters. It requires pristine water conditions with rocky substrates and abundant riparian forest cover that provides shade and organic matter input.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in Astroblepidae

Cobre climbing catfish

Astroblepus phelpsi

Unknown

Threatened in Colombia

Helena's Marsupial Frog

Gastrotheca helenae

Stable

Frequently asked questions

Why is Albirregas climbing catfish classified as Endangered?

Albirregas climbing catfish is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Astroblepus orientalis faces severe pressure from habitat degradation in its restricted Andean range, where deforestation and agricultural expansion have fragmented the pristine mountain streams it requires. Mining activities and water pollution from agricultural runoff further compromise the water quality essential for this specialized catfish. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering precipitation patterns and stream temperatures in its high-altitude habitat.

Where does Albirregas climbing catfish live?

Albirregas climbing catfish occurs in Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.

What are the main threats to Albirregas climbing catfish?

The main threats to Albirregas climbing catfish are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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