Threatened fishes of the world: Triplophysa siluroides (Herzenstein 1888) (Balitoridae)

Abstract

Common name: Catfish-like loach. Conservation status: Vulnerable, China Red Data Book of Endangered Animals (Yue and Chen 1998), and China Species Red List (Wang and Xie 2004). Identification: Body scaleless but densely covered with wart-like epidermal tubercles. Predorsal trunk depressed (SL≥ 200 mm) or laterally compressed (SL≤150 mm). Head depressed and tapering. D: iii, 8–9; P: i, 12–14; V: i, 7–8; A: ii, 5; C: 15–16 (branched rays). Irregular cloud-like bars present on the trunk in large individuals (SL>250 mm), while 8–15 regular bars in small ones (SL=104–191 mm) (Herzenstein 1888). Distribution: Endemic to the upper reaches of the Yellow River drainage in Qinghai, Sichuan and Gansu provinces in China (Zhu 1989; Ding 1994). Abundance: It is a commercial species in its distribution regions, with its populations declining dramatically in recent decades. Habitat and ecology: Inhabits bottom of the plateau rivers with gravel bottom, deep and swift current, or stays in slow current and static water with alluvial silt and lots of aquatic plants. It is a carnivorous fish with strong swimming ability. Reproduction: Spawning from June to August in the brooks with gravel bottom and slow flowing water, eggs are yellow and 2–3 mm in diameter. Larvae prefer to the riverside or adjacent small pools. Threats: Illegal fishing methods including poisoning, electrification and bombing. Overfishing resulted from tourists’ favorite of eating wild fishes has become one of the most harmful threats in recent decade. Conservation action: The lack of proper protection for this species has created some concern. The lack of protection has been related to poor public awareness and a lack of financial resources. Conservation recommendations: Strict fishing controls should be put into place and a natural reserve for this species created. Artificial propagation should be strengthened along with the release of artificial reared young fishes into the wild.