EN

Baryancistrus longipinnis

Declining

Overview

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

Baryancistrus longipinnis faces severe pressure from the ornamental fish trade, where it is highly sought after as the 'Gold Nugget Pleco' for aquariums worldwide. Dam construction and proposed hydroelectric projects along the Xingu River system threaten to alter critical water flow patterns and sediment deposition that this species requires for breeding. Mining activities and agricultural runoff in the watershed further degrade water quality in its restricted range.

Threat summary

Habitat

This armored catfish inhabits fast-flowing rocky areas of the Xingu River basin in Brazil, particularly favoring areas with strong currents and rocky substrates where it can attach using its specialized sucker mouth. The species requires well-oxygenated waters with specific temperature and flow conditions typical of Amazonian clearwater rivers.

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 Baryancistrus longipinnis classified as Endangered?
Baryancistrus longipinnis is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Baryancistrus longipinnis faces severe pressure from the ornamental fish trade, where it is highly sought after as the 'Gold Nugget Pleco' for aquariums worldwide. Dam construction and proposed hydroelectric projects along the Xingu River system threaten to alter critical water flow patterns and sediment deposition that this species requires for breeding. Mining activities and agricultural runoff in the watershed further degrade water quality in its restricted range.
Where does Baryancistrus longipinnis live?
Baryancistrus longipinnis 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 Baryancistrus longipinnis?
The main threats to Baryancistrus longipinnis 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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