Chirostoma charari
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Chirostoma charari faces severe threats from water extraction and diversion that has dramatically reduced water levels in its native lake system. The species is also threatened by introduced exotic fish species that compete for resources and prey on juveniles. Pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development has degraded water quality, while the small, restricted population makes the species extremely vulnerable to any environmental changes or catastrophic events.
Habitat
This endemic silverside fish inhabits the shallow, alkaline waters of Lake Chapala and associated water bodies in the Mexican highlands. It prefers areas with moderate vegetation cover and clean, well-oxygenated water typical of high-altitude lake ecosystems.
