Haplochromis michaeli
Overview
Haplochromis michaeli is a species of cichlid endemic to Lake Victoria. It is critically endangered, though it may now be extinct. This species can reach a length of 14.5 centimetres (5.7 in) SL. The specific name honours the collector of the type, the British fisheries scientist Michael Graham (1888-1972).
Haplochromis michaeli faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across native cichlid species. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality in its shallow breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated critical spawning sites.
Habitat
Haplochromis michaeli inhabits the shallow, rocky and sandy shores of Lake Victoria, typically found in areas with moderate vegetation cover. This cichlid species prefers depths of 1-10 meters where it can find suitable breeding territories among rocks and aquatic plants.
