Aphaniops sirhani
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Aphaniops sirhani faces severe threats from water extraction and agricultural development that have dramatically reduced water levels in its desert spring habitats. The species' extremely limited range makes it highly vulnerable to any changes in water chemistry or flow, while introduced species and pollution from nearby human activities further compromise its fragile ecosystem.
Habitat
This critically endangered pupfish is endemic to desert springs and associated pools in arid regions of the Middle East. It inhabits shallow, warm freshwater springs with specific water chemistry requirements, typically in areas with minimal vegetation and high mineral content.