Haplochromis beadlei
Overview
Haplochromis beadlei is a species of cichlid endemic to Lake Nabugabo in Uganda. This species reaches a length of 11.8 centimetres (4.6 in) SL. Its specific name honours the chemist and zoologist on the 1930-1931 Cambridge Expedition to the East African Lakes, during which the type of this species was collected, Leonard C. Beadle.
Haplochromis beadlei 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 continues to eliminate spawning grounds.
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 typically occurs in depths of 1-10 meters where it feeds on invertebrates and algae among the rocky crevices.
