CR

Haplochromis beadlei

Unknown

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.

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 typically occurs in depths of 1-10 meters where it feeds on invertebrates and algae among the rocky crevices.

Wetlands (inland) - Permanent freshwater lakes· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Haplochromis beadlei classified as Critically Endangered?
Haplochromis beadlei 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 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.
Where does Haplochromis beadlei live?
Haplochromis beadlei occurs in 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 beadlei?
The main threats to Haplochromis beadlei 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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