Small-headed barbel
VU

Small-headed barbel

Luciobarbus microcephalus

UnknownVUEUVUEU

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

Overview

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

The Small-headed barbel faces severe pressure from dam construction and water extraction across its Mediterranean range, which fragments populations and alters natural flow regimes essential for spawning. Agricultural runoff and urban pollution have degraded water quality in many river systems, while introduced fish species compete for resources and alter ecosystem dynamics. Climate change exacerbates these pressures through increased drought frequency and temperature extremes that stress remaining populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Small-headed barbel inhabits clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams with rocky or gravel substrates across the Mediterranean basin. It prefers well-oxygenated waters with moderate to strong currents, typically found in mid-elevation river systems from sea level to approximately 800 meters altitude.

FRESHWATER· major

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Unknown
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Menderes barbel

Luciobarbus kottelati

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Ohrid spirlinVU

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Threatened in Portugal

Calidris ferrugineaVU

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Helictochloa hackelii

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CR

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Small-headed barbel classified as Vulnerable?
Small-headed barbel is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Small-headed barbel faces severe pressure from dam construction and water extraction across its Mediterranean range, which fragments populations and alters natural flow regimes essential for spawning. Agricultural runoff and urban pollution have degraded water quality in many river systems, while introduced fish species compete for resources and alter ecosystem dynamics. Climate change exacerbates these pressures through increased drought frequency and temperature extremes that stress remaining populations.
Where does Small-headed barbel live?
Small-headed barbel occurs in Portugal, and Spain. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Small-headed barbel?
The main threats to Small-headed barbel 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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