Chiloglanis ruziziensis
Overview
Chiloglanis ruziziensis is a species of upside-down catfish native to Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda where it occurs in the Ruzizi River. This species grows to a length of 6.3 centimetres (2.5 in) SL.
Chiloglanis ruziziensis faces severe threats from habitat degradation in its restricted range within the Ruzizi River system. Agricultural expansion and sedimentation from upstream activities have altered water quality and substrate composition essential for this catfish species. Dam construction and water extraction for irrigation have modified natural flow regimes, while pollution from agricultural runoff and domestic waste further compromises the aquatic ecosystem.
Habitat
This species inhabits rocky substrates in fast-flowing sections of the Ruzizi River system in the East African Rift Valley. It requires well-oxygenated waters with stable rocky bottoms and clear conditions typical of highland river environments.
