Haplochromis obesus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Haplochromis obesus faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines through predation and competition. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff and sewage has degraded water quality and reduced oxygen levels in the lake's deeper waters where this species historically occurred. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have further reduced population numbers and degraded critical breeding habitats.
Habitat
This cichlid fish is endemic to Lake Victoria in East Africa, where it historically inhabited deeper rocky and sandy bottom areas of the lake. The species preferred well-oxygenated waters at depths typically ranging from 10-40 meters.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in CICHLIDAE
Threatened in Kenya
Frequently asked questions
Why is Haplochromis obesus classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Haplochromis obesus live?
What are the main threats to Haplochromis obesus?
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