Woundfin
CR

Woundfin

Plagopterus argentissimus

Declining

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.

Threat summary

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.

Wetlands (inland) - Permanent rivers/streams· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recoverySpecies reintroduction

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Woundfin classified as Critically Endangered?
Woundfin 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. 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.
Where does Woundfin live?
Woundfin occurs in 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 Woundfin?
The main threats to Woundfin are 11.2, 11.4, 2.1, and 5.3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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