VU

Parancistrus nudiventris

Declining

Overview

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

Parancistrus nudiventris faces significant pressure from the ornamental fish trade, where it is highly sought after as an aquarium species due to its distinctive appearance. Habitat degradation in the Xingu River system, particularly from dam construction and mining activities, has fragmented its limited range. Water quality changes from agricultural runoff and deforestation in the watershed further threaten the specialized rocky substrate environments this species requires for feeding and reproduction.

Threat summary

Habitat

This catfish species inhabits fast-flowing rocky areas of the Xingu River system in Brazil, particularly favoring areas with large boulders and strong currents. It requires well-oxygenated water with rocky substrates where it can graze on algae and biofilm using its specialized sucker mouth.

FRESHWATER· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Parancistrus nudiventris classified as Vulnerable?
Parancistrus nudiventris 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. Parancistrus nudiventris faces significant pressure from the ornamental fish trade, where it is highly sought after as an aquarium species due to its distinctive appearance. Habitat degradation in the Xingu River system, particularly from dam construction and mining activities, has fragmented its limited range. Water quality changes from agricultural runoff and deforestation in the watershed further threaten the specialized rocky substrate environments this species requires for feeding and reproduction.
Where does Parancistrus nudiventris live?
Parancistrus nudiventris occurs in Brazil. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Parancistrus nudiventris?
The main threats to Parancistrus nudiventris 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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