Haplochromis martini
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Haplochromis martini faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines through predation and competition. 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 and disrupted the species' ecological niche.
Habitat
Haplochromis martini inhabits the shallow, rocky and sandy shores of Lake Victoria, particularly areas with moderate vegetation cover. The species prefers depths of 1-4 meters where it feeds on small invertebrates and algae among the substrate.
