Chapalichthys pardalis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Chapalichthys pardalis faces severe population decline due to extensive habitat modification and water extraction in the Lerma River system. The species has experienced dramatic range reduction, with several historical populations now extirpated due to dam construction, agricultural diversions, and urban development that have altered natural flow regimes. Introduced exotic fish species compete directly with this endemic goodeid, while water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban discharge further degrades remaining habitat quality.
Habitat
This endemic Mexican goodeid inhabits shallow, slow-flowing sections of the Lerma River system in central Mexico, particularly areas with aquatic vegetation and soft substrates. The species prefers clear, well-oxygenated waters with temperatures between 18-24°C and is typically found in depths of 0.5-2 meters.
