Plagopterus argentissimus
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woundfin
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The woundfin faces severe threats from habitat modification and non-native species introductions throughout its limited range in the Colorado River system. Dam construction and water diversions have dramatically altered natural flow regimes, while introduced predatory fish species like largemouth bass and channel catfish prey heavily on juvenile woundfin. Water quality degradation from agricultural runoff and urban development further compromises the specialized desert stream habitats this species requires for survival.
Habitat
The woundfin inhabits warm, turbid waters of the Colorado River system, particularly in shallow runs and backwaters with sandy or muddy substrates. This species is adapted to the naturally variable flow conditions and high sediment loads characteristic of desert river systems in the southwestern United States.
