VU

Cynotilapia chilundu

Stable

Overview

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

Cynotilapia chilundu faces significant pressure from overfishing and habitat degradation within its restricted Lake Malawi range. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection for the aquarium trade due to its attractive coloration and specialized rocky habitat requirements. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and coastal development threatens the clear water conditions essential for this cichlid's feeding and breeding behaviors.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic cichlid inhabits the rocky shores and intermediate depths of Lake Malawi, typically found among boulder fields and rocky outcrops at depths of 5-20 meters. The species requires clear, well-oxygenated water with complex rock formations that provide both feeding opportunities and breeding territories.

Rocky areas· majorMarine neritic· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Cynotilapia chilundu classified as Vulnerable?
Cynotilapia chilundu 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. Cynotilapia chilundu faces significant pressure from overfishing and habitat degradation within its restricted Lake Malawi range. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection for the aquarium trade due to its attractive coloration and specialized rocky habitat requirements. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and coastal development threatens the clear water conditions essential for this cichlid's feeding and breeding behaviors.
Where does Cynotilapia chilundu live?
Cynotilapia chilundu occurs in Malawi, and Mozambique. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Cynotilapia chilundu?
The main threats to Cynotilapia chilundu 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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