VU

Haplochromis velifer

Unknown

Overview

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

Haplochromis velifer faces severe pressure from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across native cichlid species. Overfishing and the use of destructive fishing methods have further reduced breeding populations. Water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and urban pollution has altered the lake's ecosystem, affecting the species' feeding and reproductive success.

Threat summary

Habitat

Haplochromis velifer inhabits the shallow rocky and sandy shores of Lake Victoria, typically found at depths of 2-15 meters. The species prefers areas with moderate vegetation cover and rocky substrates that provide shelter and breeding sites.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in CICHLIDAE

VU

Haplochromis xanthopteryx

Unknown
CR

Haplochromis annectidens

Unknown
EN

Pearl Cichlid

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CR

Golden Mudfeeder

Sarotherodon knauerae

Unknown

Threatened in Kenya

Calidris ferrugineaVU

Calidris ferruginea

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VU

Panicum pinifolium

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VU

Aidia abeidii

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VU

Lellingeria strangeana

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Haplochromis velifer classified as Vulnerable?
Haplochromis velifer is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Haplochromis velifer faces severe pressure from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across native cichlid species. Overfishing and the use of destructive fishing methods have further reduced breeding populations. Water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and urban pollution has altered the lake's ecosystem, affecting the species' feeding and reproductive success.
Where does Haplochromis velifer live?
Haplochromis velifer occurs in Kenya, and Uganda. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Haplochromis velifer?
The main threats to Haplochromis velifer 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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