Sapito
EN

Sapito

Dupouyichthys sapito

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dupouyichthys

Overview

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

Dupouyichthys sapito faces severe pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its limited range in South American freshwater systems. Dam construction and water diversions have fragmented its riverine habitat, while pollution from mining activities and agricultural runoff degrades water quality in remaining suitable areas. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes.

Threat summary

Habitat

This freshwater fish inhabits clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams in tropical South American river systems, typically in areas with rocky substrates and moderate to strong currents. It shows preference for well-oxygenated waters in forested catchments where canopy cover helps maintain stable water temperatures.

FRESHWATER· major

Threatened in Colombia

EN

Helena's Marsupial Frog

Gastrotheca helenae

Stable
EN

Varied White-fronted Capuchin

Cebus versicolor

Declining
VU

Styrax duidae

Declining
EN

Baird's Tapir

Tapirus bairdii

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Sapito classified as Endangered?
Sapito is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Dupouyichthys sapito faces severe pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its limited range in South American freshwater systems. Dam construction and water diversions have fragmented its riverine habitat, while pollution from mining activities and agricultural runoff degrades water quality in remaining suitable areas. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes.
Where does Sapito live?
Sapito occurs in Colombia, and Venezuela. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Sapito?
The main threats to Sapito 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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