Chambo
CR

Chambo

Oreochromis karongae

Declining

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oreochromis_karongae

Overview

Oreochromis karongae is a critically endangered species of cichlid that is endemic to Lake Malawi, Lake Malombe, and upper and middle Shire River in Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. This species is important to local commercial fisheries, but has declined drastically due to overfishing.

Oreochromis karongae faces severe population decline primarily due to overfishing and the introduction of non-native tilapia species that compete for resources and hybridize with native populations. Habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and sedimentation in Lake Malawi has further reduced suitable breeding and feeding areas. The species' restricted range within specific areas of Lake Malawi makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and fishing pressure.

Threat summary

Habitat

Oreochromis karongae is endemic to Lake Malawi, inhabiting shallow rocky and sandy shores along specific coastal areas. The species prefers areas with moderate water depth and rocky substrates that provide shelter and breeding sites.

Wetlands (inland) - Permanent freshwater lakes· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protection

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Chambo classified as Critically Endangered?
Chambo is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Oreochromis karongae faces severe population decline primarily due to overfishing and the introduction of non-native tilapia species that compete for resources and hybridize with native populations. Habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and sedimentation in Lake Malawi has further reduced suitable breeding and feeding areas. The species' restricted range within specific areas of Lake Malawi makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and fishing pressure.
Where does Chambo live?
Chambo occurs in Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Chambo?
The main threats to Chambo are 5.4, ai-1, ai-2, and ai-3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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