CR

Haplochromis parvidens

Declining

Overview

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

Haplochromis parvidens faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across endemic cichlid species. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality in critical breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced remaining populations, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated shallow breeding zones essential for reproduction.

Threat summary

Habitat

Haplochromis parvidens inhabits the shallow, rocky shores and sandy bottoms of Lake Victoria, typically found in depths of 1-10 meters. The species prefers areas with moderate vegetation cover and rocky substrates that provide shelter and breeding sites.

FRESHWATER· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recoveryPolicies and regulations

Frequently asked questions

Why is Haplochromis parvidens classified as Critically Endangered?
Haplochromis parvidens 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 parvidens faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across endemic cichlid species. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality in critical breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced remaining populations, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated shallow breeding zones essential for reproduction.
Where does Haplochromis parvidens live?
Haplochromis parvidens occurs in Kenya, Tanzania, 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 parvidens?
The main threats to Haplochromis parvidens are 8.3, 9.3, ai-1, and ai-2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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