Haplochromis bareli
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Haplochromis bareli faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines across native cichlid species. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality in the lake's shallow breeding areas. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development has eliminated critical spawning grounds.
Habitat
Haplochromis bareli inhabits the shallow, rocky and sandy shores of Lake Victoria, typically found in areas with moderate vegetation cover. This endemic cichlid prefers depths of 2-10 meters where it feeds among the substrate and seeks shelter in rocky crevices.
