CR

Haplochromis brownae

Declining

Overview

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

Haplochromis brownae faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across endemic cichlid species. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality in critical breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated essential spawning grounds.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic cichlid inhabits the shallow rocky and sandy shores of Lake Victoria, particularly areas with complex substrate structure that provide shelter and breeding sites. The species prefers depths of 2-10 meters where it can access both algal food sources and suitable spawning territories among rock crevices.

FRESHWATER· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recoveryPolicies and regulations

Frequently asked questions

Why is Haplochromis brownae classified as Critically Endangered?
Haplochromis brownae is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Haplochromis brownae faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across endemic cichlid species. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality in critical breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated essential spawning grounds.
Where does Haplochromis brownae live?
Haplochromis brownae occurs in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Haplochromis brownae?
The main threats to Haplochromis brownae are 8.3, 9.3, ai-1, and ai-2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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