CR

Chiloglanis ruziziensis

Unknown

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.

Threat summary

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.

Rocky areas· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Chiloglanis ruziziensis classified as Critically Endangered?
Chiloglanis ruziziensis 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. 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.
Where does Chiloglanis ruziziensis live?
Chiloglanis ruziziensis occurs in Burundi, Congo - Kinshasa, and Rwanda. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Chiloglanis ruziziensis?
The main threats to Chiloglanis ruziziensis are 2.1, ai-1, ai-2, and ai-3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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