VU

Tomicodon absitus

Unknown

Overview

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

Tomicodon absitus faces significant pressure from coastal development and tourism infrastructure along its limited Caribbean range. The species' specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and coastal pollution. Climate change poses an additional threat through rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, which can disrupt the delicate reef ecosystems this clingfish depends upon.

Threat summary

Habitat

Tomicodon absitus inhabits shallow coral reef environments and rocky coastal areas in the Caribbean, typically found in crevices and among coral formations at depths of 1-15 meters. The species shows a strong preference for areas with good water circulation and healthy coral cover.

Marine intertidal· majorRocky areas· majorMarine neritic· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies recovery

Frequently asked questions

Why is Tomicodon absitus classified as Vulnerable?
Tomicodon absitus 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. Tomicodon absitus faces significant pressure from coastal development and tourism infrastructure along its limited Caribbean range. The species' specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and coastal pollution. Climate change poses an additional threat through rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, which can disrupt the delicate reef ecosystems this clingfish depends upon.
Where does Tomicodon absitus live?
Tomicodon absitus occurs in Costa Rica, Mexico, and Panama. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Tomicodon absitus?
The main threats to Tomicodon absitus 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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