VU

Leporacanthicus joselimai

Declining

Overview

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

Leporacanthicus joselimai faces severe pressure from dam construction and hydroelectric development along the Tapajós River system, which fragments its habitat and alters critical water flow patterns. Deforestation in the surrounding Amazon basin increases sedimentation and degrades water quality in the rocky rapids this species requires for survival. The ornamental fish trade poses an additional threat, as this distinctive pleco is sought after by aquarium enthusiasts, leading to targeted collection from wild populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This armored catfish inhabits fast-flowing rocky rapids and boulder-strewn areas of the Tapajós River and its tributaries in the Brazilian Amazon. It requires well-oxygenated waters with strong currents and abundant rocky crevices for shelter and feeding on algae and biofilm.

FRESHWATER· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Leporacanthicus joselimai classified as Vulnerable?
Leporacanthicus joselimai 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. Leporacanthicus joselimai faces severe pressure from dam construction and hydroelectric development along the Tapajós River system, which fragments its habitat and alters critical water flow patterns. Deforestation in the surrounding Amazon basin increases sedimentation and degrades water quality in the rocky rapids this species requires for survival. The ornamental fish trade poses an additional threat, as this distinctive pleco is sought after by aquarium enthusiasts, leading to targeted collection from wild populations.
Where does Leporacanthicus joselimai live?
Leporacanthicus joselimai occurs in Brazil. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Leporacanthicus joselimai?
The main threats to Leporacanthicus joselimai 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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