Hypsolebias igneus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Hypsolebias igneus faces severe threats from habitat destruction as its temporary pool habitats in the Brazilian Cerrado are converted to agriculture and urban development. The species' dependence on seasonal rainfall patterns makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change and drought, which can eliminate breeding pools entirely. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and cattle ranching further degrades the quality of remaining temporary wetlands essential for reproduction.
Habitat
This annual killifish inhabits temporary pools and seasonal wetlands in the Brazilian Cerrado savanna, particularly in areas that flood during the rainy season and dry completely during drought periods. The species requires shallow, vegetated pools with specific water chemistry conditions for successful reproduction and egg development.