Telestes fontinalis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telestes_fontinalis
Overview
Telestes fontinalis, the Spring pijor or Krbava dace, is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Leuciscidae, which includes the daces, Eurasian minnows and related fishes. It is found only in Croatia. Its natural habitats are intermittent rivers and inland karsts. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Telestes fontinalis faces severe population decline due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and urban development in its limited range. Water abstraction for irrigation and domestic use has reduced flow rates in the spring-fed streams this species depends upon. Pollution from agricultural chemicals and sewage discharge has further compromised water quality in its already restricted habitat.
Habitat
This critically endangered cyprinid inhabits clear, cool spring-fed streams and small rivers with rocky or gravelly substrates. The species requires well-oxygenated waters with stable temperatures and minimal pollution levels.
