Iberian barbel
Luciobarbus comizo
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iberian_barbel
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Iberian barbel faces severe pressure from dam construction and river regulation across its native range in Portugal and Spain, which fragments populations and alters natural flow regimes essential for spawning. Water extraction for agriculture and urban development has reduced river flows, while pollution from agricultural runoff and urban wastewater degrades water quality in many river systems. Climate change exacerbates these pressures by increasing water temperatures and reducing precipitation, further stressing already fragmented populations.
Habitat
The Iberian barbel inhabits medium to large rivers with moderate to fast-flowing waters, typically in areas with rocky or gravel substrates. It prefers well-oxygenated waters in the middle and lower reaches of river systems throughout the Iberian Peninsula.
Other threatened species in Cyprinidae
Threatened in Morocco
Frequently asked questions
Why is Iberian barbel classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Iberian barbel live?
What are the main threats to Iberian barbel?
Get weekly conservation intelligence
One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.
Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.