Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus
VU

Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus

Declining

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nimbochromis_fuscotaeniatus

Overview

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

Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus faces severe pressure from overfishing throughout its Lake Malawi range, where it is targeted both as a food fish and for the aquarium trade. Habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and sedimentation has altered water quality in critical breeding areas along rocky shores. The species' specialized predatory behavior and specific habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to ecosystem disruption, with declining prey fish populations further threatening its survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cichlid is endemic to Lake Malawi, inhabiting rocky shores and intermediate depths between 5-40 meters where it hunts smaller fish among boulder fields and rocky outcrops. The species requires clear, well-oxygenated waters with complex rocky substrates that provide both hunting grounds and spawning sites.

FRESHWATER· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus classified as Vulnerable?
Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus 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. Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus faces severe pressure from overfishing throughout its Lake Malawi range, where it is targeted both as a food fish and for the aquarium trade. Habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and sedimentation has altered water quality in critical breeding areas along rocky shores. The species' specialized predatory behavior and specific habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to ecosystem disruption, with declining prey fish populations further threatening its survival.
Where does Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus live?
Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus occurs in Japan, 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 Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus?
The main threats to Nimbochromis fuscotaeniatus 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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