CR

Haplochromis latifasciatus

Unknown

Overview

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

Haplochromis latifasciatus faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines through predation and competition. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff and sewage has degraded water quality and reduced oxygen levels in the lake's deeper waters where this species historically thrived. Overfishing using fine-mesh nets has further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development continues to eliminate critical breeding areas.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cichlid species is endemic to Lake Victoria in East Africa, where it inhabits rocky shores and sandy-muddy bottoms at depths typically ranging from 2-15 meters. The species prefers areas with moderate water movement and adequate dissolved oxygen levels, often associating with submerged rocks and vegetation for feeding and shelter.

FRESHWATER· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Haplochromis latifasciatus classified as Critically Endangered?
Haplochromis latifasciatus 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 latifasciatus faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines through predation and competition. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff and sewage has degraded water quality and reduced oxygen levels in the lake's deeper waters where this species historically thrived. Overfishing using fine-mesh nets has further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development continues to eliminate critical breeding areas.
Where does Haplochromis latifasciatus live?
Haplochromis latifasciatus occurs in South Africa, 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 latifasciatus?
The main threats to Haplochromis latifasciatus 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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