Chiloglanis bifurcus
Overview
The Incomati rock catlet or Incomati suckermouth is a species of upside-down catfish native to Mozambique, South Africa and Eswatini where it is only found in the Crocodile-Incomati River system. This species grows to a length of 6.8 centimetres (2.7 in) SL.
Chiloglanis bifurcus faces severe threats from habitat degradation in its restricted range within the Incomati River system. Dam construction and water abstraction have altered natural flow regimes essential for this rheophilic catfish's survival. Agricultural runoff and urban pollution further compromise water quality in the remaining suitable habitats, while the species' extremely limited distribution makes it vulnerable to any localized environmental changes.
Habitat
This species inhabits fast-flowing rocky sections of rivers and streams within the Incomati River system in South Africa. It requires well-oxygenated waters with rocky substrates and strong currents, typical of rheophilic catfish species.
