Haplochromis vonlinnei
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haplochromis_vonlinnei
Overview
Haplochromis vonlinnei is a species of cichlid endemic to Lake Victoria. It is greyish in color with a distinct mid-lateral band, and a rather slender shape. It feeds mainly on smaller fish.
This species can reach a length of 15.9 centimetres (6.3 in) SL. The population of the species has declined due to the introduction of the Nile perch in the 1950s. It has not been recorded since 1980 and the IUCN lists it as "Critically Endangered" and considers it may already be extinct.
This fish is named in honour of the Swedish naturalist, Carl Linnaeus.
Haplochromis vonlinnei faces severe threats from the introduction of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) into Lake Victoria, which has caused dramatic population declines through predation and competition. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff and sewage has degraded water quality and reduced oxygen levels in the lake's deeper waters where this species historically occurred. Overfishing using fine-mesh nets has further reduced population numbers, while habitat modification from shoreline development continues to impact breeding areas.
Habitat
This endemic cichlid inhabits the deeper rocky and sandy areas of Lake Victoria, typically found at depths between 10-40 meters. The species prefers areas with moderate water flow and rocky substrates that provide shelter and breeding sites.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in CICHLIDAE
Threatened in Tanzania
Frequently asked questions
Why is Haplochromis vonlinnei classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Haplochromis vonlinnei live?
What are the main threats to Haplochromis vonlinnei?
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