Champsochromis spilorhynchus
EN

Champsochromis spilorhynchus

Declining

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Champsochromis_spilorhynchus

Overview

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

Champsochromis spilorhynchus faces severe pressure from intensive fishing activities throughout Lake Malawi, where it is targeted both commercially and by subsistence fishers. The species' decline has been exacerbated by the introduction of non-native fish species that compete for resources and alter the lake's ecological balance. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and deforestation in the catchment area has degraded critical spawning and feeding habitats, while climate-driven changes in water levels and temperature patterns further stress remaining populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic cichlid inhabits the open waters and rocky shores of Lake Malawi in East Africa, typically found at depths ranging from shallow littoral zones to deeper pelagic areas. The species prefers areas with rocky substrates and clear water conditions that support its specialized feeding behavior and reproductive requirements.

Wetlands (inland) - Permanent rivers/streams· majorWetlands (inland) - Permanent freshwater lakes· majorRocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies recovery

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Champsochromis spilorhynchus classified as Endangered?
Champsochromis spilorhynchus is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Champsochromis spilorhynchus faces severe pressure from intensive fishing activities throughout Lake Malawi, where it is targeted both commercially and by subsistence fishers. The species' decline has been exacerbated by the introduction of non-native fish species that compete for resources and alter the lake's ecological balance. Sedimentation from agricultural runoff and deforestation in the catchment area has degraded critical spawning and feeding habitats, while climate-driven changes in water levels and temperature patterns further stress remaining populations.
Where does Champsochromis spilorhynchus live?
Champsochromis spilorhynchus occurs in Japan, Malawi, and Tanzania. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Champsochromis spilorhynchus?
The main threats to Champsochromis spilorhynchus 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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