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Hemichromis cerasogaster

Unknown

Overview

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

Hemichromis cerasogaster faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and urban development throughout its limited West African range. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and domestic waste has significantly impacted water quality in the shallow coastal streams and rivers this species depends upon. Overfishing and collection for the aquarium trade have further reduced wild populations, while introduced species compete for resources and breeding sites.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cichlid species inhabits shallow, slow-moving freshwater streams and rivers in coastal West Africa, particularly favoring areas with sandy or muddy substrates and moderate vegetation cover. It typically occurs in waters with temperatures between 24-28°C and shows preference for areas with gentle currents and adequate dissolved oxygen levels.

FRESHWATER· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Hemichromis cerasogaster classified as Endangered?
Hemichromis cerasogaster 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. Hemichromis cerasogaster faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and urban development throughout its limited West African range. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and domestic waste has significantly impacted water quality in the shallow coastal streams and rivers this species depends upon. Overfishing and collection for the aquarium trade have further reduced wild populations, while introduced species compete for resources and breeding sites.
Where does Hemichromis cerasogaster live?
Hemichromis cerasogaster occurs in Congo - Brazzaville, and Congo - Kinshasa. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Hemichromis cerasogaster?
The main threats to Hemichromis cerasogaster 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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