Ophthalmolebias rosaceus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Ophthalmolebias rosaceus faces severe threats from habitat destruction as temporary pools and wetlands in its Brazilian Cerrado range are converted for agriculture and urban development. The species' dependence on seasonal water bodies makes it particularly vulnerable to altered precipitation patterns and extended drought periods that can eliminate breeding sites. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and cattle ranching activities further degrades the quality of remaining aquatic habitats essential for this annual killifish's survival.
Habitat
This annual killifish inhabits temporary pools, seasonal wetlands, and ephemeral water bodies in the Brazilian Cerrado savanna. The species requires shallow, vegetated pools that fill during rainy seasons and dry completely during drought periods, completing its entire life cycle within these temporary aquatic environments.