Xenoclarias eupogon
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Victoria_deepwater_catfish
Overview
The Lake Victoria deepwater catfish is a species of catfish of the family Clariidae. This species is endemic to Lake Victoria, and is found in deeper areas of the lake, from 12 to 20 metres (39–66 ft). This species is threatened with extinction or may already be extinct due to predation by the introduced Nile perch as well as other recent ecological changes. This species grows to about 20 cm (7.9 in) SL.
Xenoclarias eupogon faces severe threats from habitat degradation in its limited freshwater range. Agricultural expansion and urban development have significantly reduced suitable aquatic habitats, while water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial activities degrades remaining stream systems. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and human disturbances.
Habitat
This critically endangered catfish inhabits freshwater streams and rivers in tropical regions. It typically occupies well-oxygenated flowing waters with rocky or sandy substrates, often in areas with moderate current and adequate vegetation cover.
