VU

Cocos Stargazer

Gillellus chathamensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Gillellus chathamensis faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its limited coastal range around the Galápagos Islands. Introduced species, particularly feral goats and invasive plants, have altered the terrestrial ecosystems that influence nearshore marine environments where this species occurs. Coastal development and increased tourism activities in the Galápagos have led to sedimentation and pollution in shallow marine habitats. Climate change poses additional risks through ocean warming and acidification, which may affect the species' prey base and reproductive success.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic fish species inhabits shallow coastal waters and rocky reefs around the Galápagos Islands, typically found in areas with mixed sandy and rocky substrates. It occurs in nearshore marine environments where terrestrial runoff meets oceanic waters, creating unique ecological conditions.

Marine neritic· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies recovery

Other threatened species in DACTYLOSCOPIDAE

VU

Dactyloscopus insulatus

Unknown

Threatened in Costa Rica

EN

Passiflora chimuensis

Unknown
EN

Palicourea brenesii

Unknown
EN

Baird's Tapir

Tapirus bairdii

Declining
CR

Mespilodaphne paradoxa

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Cocos Stargazer classified as Vulnerable?
Cocos Stargazer 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. Gillellus chathamensis faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its limited coastal range around the Galápagos Islands. Introduced species, particularly feral goats and invasive plants, have altered the terrestrial ecosystems that influence nearshore marine environments where this species occurs. Coastal development and increased tourism activities in the Galápagos have led to sedimentation and pollution in shallow marine habitats. Climate change poses additional risks through ocean warming and acidification, which may affect the species' prey base and reproductive success.
Where does Cocos Stargazer live?
Cocos Stargazer occurs in Costa Rica. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Cocos Stargazer?
The main threats to Cocos Stargazer 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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