Pangani Haplo
VU

Pangani Haplo

Ctenochromis pectoralis

Unknown

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

Overview

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

The Pangani Haplo faces severe pressure from water abstraction and dam construction along the Pangani River system, which has dramatically altered natural flow regimes and reduced available habitat. Introduced tilapia species compete directly for resources and breeding sites, while agricultural runoff and urban pollution degrade water quality in remaining suitable areas. Overfishing using fine-mesh nets has further reduced population numbers, particularly targeting breeding adults in shallow spawning areas.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic cichlid inhabits rocky and sandy areas of the Pangani River system in Tanzania, preferring shallow to moderate depths with good water flow and rocky substrates for breeding. The species is adapted to the specific water chemistry and seasonal flow patterns of the Pangani basin's riverine environment.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in Cichlidae

Coptodon imbrifernaCR

Coptodon imbriferna

Unknown
VU

Tummaviiriahven

Neolamprologus christyi

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CR

Coptodon gutturosa

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CR

Lamprologus kungweensis

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Threatened in Kenya

Calidris ferrugineaVU

Calidris ferruginea

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VU

Panicum pinifolium

Unknown
VU

Aidia abeidii

Unknown
VU

Lellingeria strangeana

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Pangani Haplo classified as Vulnerable?
Pangani Haplo 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. The Pangani Haplo faces severe pressure from water abstraction and dam construction along the Pangani River system, which has dramatically altered natural flow regimes and reduced available habitat. Introduced tilapia species compete directly for resources and breeding sites, while agricultural runoff and urban pollution degrade water quality in remaining suitable areas. Overfishing using fine-mesh nets has further reduced population numbers, particularly targeting breeding adults in shallow spawning areas.
Where does Pangani Haplo live?
Pangani Haplo occurs in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Pangani Haplo?
The main threats to Pangani Haplo 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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