Sarotherodon steinbachi
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Sarotherodon steinbachi faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation and water pollution in its limited freshwater range. The species is particularly vulnerable to agricultural runoff and industrial contamination that affects water quality in its native river systems. Competition and hybridization with introduced tilapia species has further reduced pure breeding populations, while dam construction has fragmented remaining suitable habitat.
Habitat
This cichlid fish inhabits freshwater rivers and associated wetland systems in West Africa. The species requires clean, well-oxygenated waters with specific temperature and pH ranges typical of tropical African river ecosystems.
