VU

Clarias submarginatus

Unknown

Overview

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

Clarias submarginatus faces severe pressure from habitat degradation due to agricultural expansion and water pollution in its native river systems. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have significantly altered natural flow regimes, fragmenting populations and reducing suitable breeding habitats. Overfishing and the introduction of non-native fish species have further compromised remaining populations through direct exploitation and competitive displacement.

Threat summary

Habitat

This catfish species inhabits freshwater river systems and associated wetlands in sub-Saharan Africa, preferring slow-moving waters with muddy substrates and abundant vegetation. It typically occurs in floodplain areas and seasonal pools that provide critical spawning and nursery habitats.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Clarias submarginatus classified as Vulnerable?
Clarias submarginatus 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. Clarias submarginatus faces severe pressure from habitat degradation due to agricultural expansion and water pollution in its native river systems. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have significantly altered natural flow regimes, fragmenting populations and reducing suitable breeding habitats. Overfishing and the introduction of non-native fish species have further compromised remaining populations through direct exploitation and competitive displacement.
Where does Clarias submarginatus live?
Clarias submarginatus occurs in Cameroon, and Gabon. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Clarias submarginatus?
The main threats to Clarias submarginatus 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.

Get weekly conservation intelligence

One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.

Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.