VU

Ancistrus formoso

Unknown

Overview

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

Ancistrus formoso faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its native Brazilian river systems, particularly from agricultural runoff and sedimentation that affects water quality. Deforestation in surrounding watersheds has increased erosion and altered natural flow patterns, while dam construction fragments populations and disrupts breeding cycles. The species' limited geographic range makes it especially vulnerable to localized environmental changes and pollution events.

Threat summary

Habitat

This armored catfish inhabits fast-flowing rocky streams and rivers in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest region, typically found in areas with strong currents and rocky substrates. It prefers well-oxygenated waters with natural vegetation cover along the banks.

Other threatened species in LORICARIIDAE

EN

Ancistrus minutus

Declining
VU

Harttia dissidens

Declining
EN

Pseudotocinclus tietensis

Unknown
EN

Chaetostoma stannii

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Ancistrus formoso classified as Vulnerable?
Ancistrus formoso is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Ancistrus formoso faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its native Brazilian river systems, particularly from agricultural runoff and sedimentation that affects water quality. Deforestation in surrounding watersheds has increased erosion and altered natural flow patterns, while dam construction fragments populations and disrupts breeding cycles. The species' limited geographic range makes it especially vulnerable to localized environmental changes and pollution events.
Where does Ancistrus formoso live?
Ancistrus formoso occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Ancistrus formoso?
The main threats to Ancistrus formoso 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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