Decorus decorus
Overview
Decorus decorus is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae, the carps, barbs, minnows and related fishes. This fish is endemic to China, where it has been recorded from the Xiyang Jiang, a tributary of the Xi Jiang, in Yunnan and the Bei Jiang in Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces. It is found in mountain streams with gravel beds and a fast current.
Decorus decorus faces severe population decline due to extensive habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species' highly specialized ecological requirements make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes, with remaining populations increasingly fragmented and isolated. Invasive species competition and altered fire regimes have further degraded the quality of remaining suitable habitat patches.
Habitat
This species inhabits specialized microhabitats within temperate grasslands and open woodlands, requiring specific soil conditions and vegetation structure. It shows strong preference for areas with particular moisture levels and plant community compositions that have become increasingly rare.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in CYPRINIDAE
Threatened in China
Frequently asked questions
Why is Decorus decorus classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Decorus decorus live?
What are the main threats to Decorus decorus?
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