Haplochromis dichrourus
Overview
Haplochromis dichrourus is a species of cichlid endemic to Lake Victoria, but has not been seen since 1986. This species grows to a length of 18.6 centimetres (7.3 in) SL. It may be extinct, but is maintained as Critically Endangered by the IUCN in the small chance that a tiny –but currently unknown– population survives.
Haplochromis dichrourus faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across endemic cichlid species. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff and sewage has degraded water quality and reduced oxygen levels in critical breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated important spawning sites.
Habitat
This endemic cichlid inhabits the shallow rocky and sandy shores of Lake Victoria, particularly areas with moderate vegetation cover. The species prefers depths of 2-15 meters where it feeds on invertebrates and small fish among rocky crevices and sandy substrates.
