Oxynoemacheilus insignis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Oxynoemacheilus insignis |
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| O. insignis in the Hasbaya District, Lebanon | |
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Oxynoemacheilus insignis is a small freshwater fish. It is a type of stone loach. This fish lives in rivers and streams in parts of the Middle East. It is special because different groups of these fish can look quite different from each other. Sadly, its natural home is shrinking, and it is now considered a "Near Threatened" species.
About the Stone Loach
The Oxynoemacheilus insignis is a fascinating fish. It is known for being very adaptable. This means it can survive in different parts of rivers. Scientists have found that groups of these fish living in different places can look so unique. Because of these differences, they were sometimes thought to be separate species in the past. This is why it has many different scientific names, called synonyms.
Where Does It Live?
This stone loach lives in specific areas of the Middle East. You can find it in the Damascus basin in Syria. It also lives in the Jordan-Dead Sea basin. This area includes parts of Syria, Israel, and Jordan. Its favorite place to live is in rivers and streams.
Why It's in Danger
The Oxynoemacheilus insignis is facing serious threats. Its main problem is that the rivers and streams where it lives are drying up. This happens for several reasons:
- People use too much water from the rivers.
- Dams are built, which stop the natural flow of water.
- There is less rainfall than before.
- Pollution also harms the water quality.
In Syria, this fish has already disappeared from the Barada river. This means it is extirpated from that area. Now, it can only be found in the upper parts of the Awaj river, west of Damascus. Protecting these freshwater homes is very important for the future of the Oxynoemacheilus insignis.
