CR

Schizothorax lepidothorax

Unknown

Overview

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

Schizothorax lepidothorax faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation from dam construction and water diversion projects in its native river systems. Overfishing and the introduction of non-native fish species have further reduced populations, while climate change-induced alterations to water temperature and flow patterns threaten the species' specialized cold-water habitat requirements.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits cold, fast-flowing rivers and streams in high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, typically found in well-oxygenated waters with rocky substrates. It prefers pristine mountain watersheds with temperatures below 20°C and requires specific spawning grounds in tributary streams.

FRESHWATER· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recovery

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Schizothorax lepidothorax classified as Critically Endangered?
Schizothorax lepidothorax 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. Schizothorax lepidothorax faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation from dam construction and water diversion projects in its native river systems. Overfishing and the introduction of non-native fish species have further reduced populations, while climate change-induced alterations to water temperature and flow patterns threaten the species' specialized cold-water habitat requirements.
Where does Schizothorax lepidothorax live?
Schizothorax lepidothorax occurs in China. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Schizothorax lepidothorax?
The main threats to Schizothorax lepidothorax are 5.4, 8.1, ai-1, and ai-2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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