CR

Astyanax eremus

Unknown

Overview

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

Astyanax eremus faces severe threats from habitat degradation and water pollution in its restricted range within the São Francisco River basin of Brazil. Agricultural runoff, urban development, and dam construction have significantly altered water quality and flow patterns in the streams where this endemic characin occurs. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with mining activities and deforestation in the watershed further compromising its aquatic habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

Astyanax eremus inhabits clear, fast-flowing streams and tributaries within the São Francisco River basin in southeastern Brazil. This endemic characin prefers well-oxygenated waters with rocky or sandy substrates, typically found in areas with riparian forest cover that provides shade and organic matter input.

FRESHWATER· major

Other threatened species in CHARACIDAE

VU

Astyanax tehuacanensis

Unknown
EN

Diapoma pyrrhopteryx

Unknown
VU

Hollandichthys taramandahy

Unknown
VU

Tetra

Hyphessobrycon arianae

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Astyanax eremus classified as Critically Endangered?
Astyanax eremus is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Astyanax eremus faces severe threats from habitat degradation and water pollution in its restricted range within the São Francisco River basin of Brazil. Agricultural runoff, urban development, and dam construction have significantly altered water quality and flow patterns in the streams where this endemic characin occurs. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, with mining activities and deforestation in the watershed further compromising its aquatic habitat.
Where does Astyanax eremus live?
Astyanax eremus occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Astyanax eremus?
The main threats to Astyanax eremus 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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