Placidochromis phenochilus
EN

Placidochromis phenochilus

Declining

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Placidochromis_phenochilus

Overview

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

Placidochromis phenochilus faces severe pressure from overfishing in Lake Malawi, where intensive commercial and artisanal fishing operations have dramatically reduced cichlid populations. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and deforestation in the catchment area degrades the rocky reef habitats essential for this species' feeding and breeding behavior. Climate change-induced water level fluctuations and temperature increases further stress the already fragmented populations of this endemic cichlid.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic cichlid inhabits the rocky shores and intermediate depths of Lake Malawi, typically found around boulder-strewn areas and rocky reefs between 5-40 meters depth. The species requires clear, well-oxygenated waters with complex rock formations that provide feeding territories and breeding sites.

FRESHWATER· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Placidochromis phenochilus classified as Endangered?
Placidochromis phenochilus 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. Placidochromis phenochilus faces severe pressure from overfishing in Lake Malawi, where intensive commercial and artisanal fishing operations have dramatically reduced cichlid populations. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and deforestation in the catchment area degrades the rocky reef habitats essential for this species' feeding and breeding behavior. Climate change-induced water level fluctuations and temperature increases further stress the already fragmented populations of this endemic cichlid.
Where does Placidochromis phenochilus live?
Placidochromis phenochilus occurs in Japan, and Malawi. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Placidochromis phenochilus?
The main threats to Placidochromis phenochilus 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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