VU

Sphaerichthys acrostoma

Unknown

Overview

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

Sphaerichthys acrostoma faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as peat swamp forests across Southeast Asia are cleared for palm oil plantations and urban development. The species' highly specialized requirements for acidic, tannin-rich blackwater environments make it particularly vulnerable to water quality changes from agricultural runoff and industrial pollution. Collection for the international aquarium trade compounds these pressures, as this attractive chocolate gourami commands high prices among hobbyists.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits acidic peat swamp forests and associated blackwater streams in lowland areas of Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia. It requires heavily vegetated, slow-moving waters with extremely soft, acidic conditions and high tannin content from decomposing organic matter.

Wetlands (inland) - Bogs, marshes, swamps, fens· major

Conservation measures underway

Resource & habitat protectionSpecies managementSpecies recoveryAwareness & communications

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Sphaerichthys acrostoma classified as Vulnerable?
Sphaerichthys acrostoma 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. Sphaerichthys acrostoma faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as peat swamp forests across Southeast Asia are cleared for palm oil plantations and urban development. The species' highly specialized requirements for acidic, tannin-rich blackwater environments make it particularly vulnerable to water quality changes from agricultural runoff and industrial pollution. Collection for the international aquarium trade compounds these pressures, as this attractive chocolate gourami commands high prices among hobbyists.
Where does Sphaerichthys acrostoma live?
Sphaerichthys acrostoma occurs in Indonesia, and Malaysia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Sphaerichthys acrostoma?
The main threats to Sphaerichthys acrostoma 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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