VU

Coryphopterus lipernes

Unknown

Overview

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

Coryphopterus lipernes faces significant pressure from coastal development and tourism infrastructure expansion throughout its Caribbean range, which directly destroys critical coral reef habitats. The species is particularly vulnerable to coral bleaching events and ocean acidification, which degrade the complex reef structures essential for its shelter and feeding behavior. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices in the region further compromise reef ecosystem integrity, while sedimentation from coastal runoff reduces water quality in shallow reef environments where this goby depends on clear water for foraging.

Threat summary

Habitat

Coryphopterus lipernes inhabits shallow coral reefs and rocky substrates in the Caribbean, typically found at depths of 3-30 meters. This small goby species prefers areas with complex coral formations and crevices that provide shelter, often associating with specific coral species and maintaining territories around cleaning stations.

Marine oceanic· majorMarine neritic· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protection

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Coryphopterus lipernes classified as Vulnerable?
Coryphopterus lipernes 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. Coryphopterus lipernes faces significant pressure from coastal development and tourism infrastructure expansion throughout its Caribbean range, which directly destroys critical coral reef habitats. The species is particularly vulnerable to coral bleaching events and ocean acidification, which degrade the complex reef structures essential for its shelter and feeding behavior. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices in the region further compromise reef ecosystem integrity, while sedimentation from coastal runoff reduces water quality in shallow reef environments where this goby depends on clear water for foraging.
Where does Coryphopterus lipernes live?
Coryphopterus lipernes occurs in Bahamas, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean Netherlands, Cayman Islands, and Colombia (plus 20 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Coryphopterus lipernes?
The main threats to Coryphopterus lipernes 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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