CR

Coptodon gutturosus

Unknown

Overview

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

Coptodon gutturosus faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation and water pollution in its limited freshwater systems. Dam construction and water extraction for agriculture have significantly altered natural flow regimes, while agricultural runoff introduces harmful chemicals and sediments. The species' restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with overfishing and introduction of non-native species further pressuring remaining populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cichlid fish inhabits freshwater rivers, streams, and associated wetlands in West Africa, typically preferring areas with rocky substrates and moderate water flow. The species is adapted to specific water chemistry conditions and requires clean, well-oxygenated water with minimal pollution.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Coptodon gutturosus classified as Critically Endangered?
Coptodon gutturosus 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. Coptodon gutturosus faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation and water pollution in its limited freshwater systems. Dam construction and water extraction for agriculture have significantly altered natural flow regimes, while agricultural runoff introduces harmful chemicals and sediments. The species' restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with overfishing and introduction of non-native species further pressuring remaining populations.
Where does Coptodon gutturosus live?
Coptodon gutturosus occurs in Cameroon. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Coptodon gutturosus?
The main threats to Coptodon gutturosus are 2.1, 5.3, 9.3, and 9.3.4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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