Harttia depressa
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Harttia depressa faces severe pressure from habitat degradation in its restricted range within Brazilian river systems. Dam construction and water diversions have altered natural flow regimes essential for this bottom-dwelling catfish's survival. Agricultural runoff and urban pollution further compromise water quality in the watersheds where this species occurs, while deforestation in surrounding areas increases sedimentation that can smother the rocky substrates it depends upon.
Habitat
This armored catfish inhabits fast-flowing rocky streams and rivers in southeastern Brazil, typically found clinging to stone substrates in well-oxygenated waters. The species requires clean, clear waters with stable rocky bottoms where it can graze on algae and organic matter.
