CR

Sarotherodon linnellii

Unknown

Overview

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

Sarotherodon linnellii faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation and water pollution in its limited freshwater range. The species is particularly vulnerable to agricultural runoff and industrial contamination that degrades water quality in the river systems it depends upon. Competition and hybridization with introduced tilapia species further threatens the genetic integrity of remaining populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cichlid fish inhabits freshwater river systems and associated wetlands in West Africa, particularly favoring areas with moderate current and rocky or sandy substrates. The species requires clean, well-oxygenated water with stable temperature conditions for successful breeding and feeding.

FRESHWATER· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Sarotherodon linnellii classified as Critically Endangered?
Sarotherodon linnellii 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. Sarotherodon linnellii faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation and water pollution in its limited freshwater range. The species is particularly vulnerable to agricultural runoff and industrial contamination that degrades water quality in the river systems it depends upon. Competition and hybridization with introduced tilapia species further threatens the genetic integrity of remaining populations.
Where does Sarotherodon linnellii live?
Sarotherodon linnellii occurs in Cameroon, and United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Sarotherodon linnellii?
The main threats to Sarotherodon linnellii are 1.2, 2.1, 5.3, and 5.4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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