Trichomycterus spelaeus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Trichomycterus spelaeus faces severe threats from its extremely restricted cave habitat in Brazil's karst regions. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban development poses the greatest risk to this cave-dwelling catfish, as contaminated groundwater directly impacts the delicate underground aquatic systems it depends on. Cave disturbance from tourism, mining activities, and infrastructure development further threatens the species' fragile ecosystem.
Habitat
This species inhabits underground cave systems and subterranean waters in limestone karst formations of southeastern Brazil. It is specifically adapted to the dark, oxygen-poor conditions of cave pools and underground streams.
Other threatened species in Trichomycteridae
Threatened in Venezuela
Frequently asked questions
Why is Trichomycterus spelaeus classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Trichomycterus spelaeus live?
What are the main threats to Trichomycterus spelaeus?
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