VUVulnerable

Melanorivulus rutilicaudus

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Melanorivulus rutilicaudus faces severe pressure from habitat degradation in Brazil's Atlantic Forest region, where deforestation and agricultural expansion have fragmented its freshwater environments. Urban development and water pollution from agricultural runoff further compromise the small streams and seasonal pools this killifish depends upon. The species' restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with climate-driven alterations to rainfall patterns potentially affecting the ephemeral water bodies essential for its reproduction.
Threat summary

Habitat

This killifish inhabits small freshwater streams, temporary pools, and seasonal wetlands within Brazil's Atlantic Forest biome. It typically occurs in shallow, slow-moving waters with dense aquatic vegetation and organic substrates.

Other threatened species in RIVULIDAE

Flame Rivulus

Cynodonichthys uroflammeus

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Melanorivulus rutilicaudus classified as Vulnerable?

Melanorivulus rutilicaudus is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Melanorivulus rutilicaudus faces severe pressure from habitat degradation in Brazil's Atlantic Forest region, where deforestation and agricultural expansion have fragmented its freshwater environments. Urban development and water pollution from agricultural runoff further compromise the small streams and seasonal pools this killifish depends upon. The species' restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with climate-driven alterations to rainfall patterns potentially affecting the ephemeral water bodies essential for its reproduction.

Where does Melanorivulus rutilicaudus live?

Melanorivulus rutilicaudus occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.

What are the main threats to Melanorivulus rutilicaudus?

The main threats to Melanorivulus rutilicaudus are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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