VU

Eidinemacheilus smithi

Unknown

Overview

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

Eidinemacheilus smithi faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its limited range within the Western Ghats of India. The species is particularly vulnerable to water pollution from agricultural runoff and domestic waste, which affects the water quality of the streams it inhabits. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation further threaten the natural flow regimes essential for this loach's survival. Climate change-induced alterations to monsoon patterns may also impact the seasonal flooding cycles that this species depends upon for breeding.

Threat summary

Habitat

Eidinemacheilus smithi inhabits clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers in the Western Ghats mountain range of southwestern India. This endemic loach prefers rocky substrates with good water flow and is typically found in areas with moderate to high elevation where water quality remains relatively pristine.

Caves and subterranean habitats· major

Other threatened species in NEMACHEILIDAE

EN

Schistura quasimodo

Declining
EN

Schistura nudidorsum

Unknown
VU

Schistura kontumensis

Declining
VU

Triplophysa baotianensis

Stable

Frequently asked questions

Why is Eidinemacheilus smithi classified as Vulnerable?
Eidinemacheilus smithi 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. Eidinemacheilus smithi faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its limited range within the Western Ghats of India. The species is particularly vulnerable to water pollution from agricultural runoff and domestic waste, which affects the water quality of the streams it inhabits. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation further threaten the natural flow regimes essential for this loach's survival. Climate change-induced alterations to monsoon patterns may also impact the seasonal flooding cycles that this species depends upon for breeding.
Where does Eidinemacheilus smithi live?
Eidinemacheilus smithi occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Eidinemacheilus smithi?
The main threats to Eidinemacheilus smithi 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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