CR

Krbava Minnow

Delminichthys krbavensis

UnknownCREUCREU

Overview

Delminichthys krbavensis, the Krbava minnow, is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Leuciscidae. This species is found in southeastern Europe. It is found only in Krbavsko Polje in Croatia, in a single karstic freshwater spring. It has disappeared from stream habitats, and is threatened by further habitat loss.

Delminichthys krbavensis faces severe threats from its extremely restricted range in the Krka River system of Croatia. The species is vulnerable to water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development, while habitat modification through dam construction and water extraction poses additional risks. Climate change-induced alterations to water temperature and flow patterns further threaten this endemic fish's survival in its limited freshwater environment.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic freshwater fish inhabits the clear, cool waters of the Krka River system in Croatia. It typically occurs in areas with rocky substrates and moderate water flow, preferring well-oxygenated sections of the river ecosystem.

Rocky areas· majorCaves and subterranean habitats· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies managementLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Krbava Minnow classified as Critically Endangered?
Krbava Minnow is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Delminichthys krbavensis faces severe threats from its extremely restricted range in the Krka River system of Croatia. The species is vulnerable to water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development, while habitat modification through dam construction and water extraction poses additional risks. Climate change-induced alterations to water temperature and flow patterns further threaten this endemic fish's survival in its limited freshwater environment.
Where does Krbava Minnow live?
Krbava Minnow occurs in Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Croatia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Krbava Minnow?
The main threats to Krbava Minnow are 11.1, 11.2, 8.1, and ai-1. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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