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Jenynsia diphyes

Declining

Overview

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

Jenynsia diphyes faces severe population decline due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and urban development in its limited freshwater range. Water pollution from pesticides and fertilizers has significantly reduced water quality in the shallow coastal streams and lagoons where this species breeds. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have altered natural flow patterns, fragmenting populations and reducing suitable spawning habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This freshwater fish inhabits shallow coastal streams, lagoons, and wetlands in southeastern South America, particularly in areas with slow-moving or still water and abundant vegetation. The species prefers brackish to freshwater environments near river mouths and coastal plains where salinity levels fluctuate naturally.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Jenynsia diphyes classified as Endangered?
Jenynsia diphyes is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Jenynsia diphyes faces severe population decline due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and urban development in its limited freshwater range. Water pollution from pesticides and fertilizers has significantly reduced water quality in the shallow coastal streams and lagoons where this species breeds. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have altered natural flow patterns, fragmenting populations and reducing suitable spawning habitat.
Where does Jenynsia diphyes live?
Jenynsia diphyes occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Jenynsia diphyes?
The main threats to Jenynsia diphyes 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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