Chirostoma melanoccus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Chirostoma melanoccus faces severe population decline primarily due to water extraction and diversion from its native lake systems in central Mexico. Introduced exotic fish species compete directly for resources and prey upon juveniles, while agricultural runoff and urban pollution degrade water quality in the shallow lake environments this species requires. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to any environmental changes in its limited habitat.
Habitat
This endemic silverside fish inhabits shallow, freshwater lake systems in the central Mexican plateau, particularly favoring areas with moderate vegetation and clear water. The species is restricted to specific lake environments in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt region.
