VU

Baryancistrus niveatus

Declining

Overview

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

Baryancistrus niveatus faces severe pressure from dam construction and hydroelectric development along the Xingu River system, which fragments its habitat and alters critical water flow patterns. Mining activities and deforestation in the watershed contribute to increased sedimentation and water quality degradation. The species' restricted range within specific rapids and rocky substrates makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat modifications, with limited ability to colonize alternative areas.

Threat summary

Habitat

This armored catfish inhabits fast-flowing rocky rapids and boulder-strewn areas of the Xingu River basin in Brazil. It requires well-oxygenated waters with strong currents and complex rocky substrates that provide both feeding opportunities and shelter from predators.

Other threatened species in LORICARIIDAE

EN

Ancistrus minutus

Declining
VU

Harttia dissidens

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EN

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EN

Chaetostoma stannii

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Baryancistrus niveatus classified as Vulnerable?
Baryancistrus niveatus 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. Baryancistrus niveatus faces severe pressure from dam construction and hydroelectric development along the Xingu River system, which fragments its habitat and alters critical water flow patterns. Mining activities and deforestation in the watershed contribute to increased sedimentation and water quality degradation. The species' restricted range within specific rapids and rocky substrates makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat modifications, with limited ability to colonize alternative areas.
Where does Baryancistrus niveatus live?
Baryancistrus niveatus 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 niveatus?
The main threats to Baryancistrus niveatus 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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