Distribution patterns and habitat associations of Sandelia bainsii (Teleostei: Anabantidae), a highly threatened narrow-range endemic freshwater fish.

摘要: Sandelia bainsii is a range-restricted and highly threatened freshwater fish endemic to South Africa. Recent genetic evidence suggests that this species comprises three allopatrically distributed lineages have been informally designated as sp. "Kowie," "Keiskamma" "Buffalo." As these only recently identified are likely face high risk of extinction because restricted distributions, there critical need for generating ecological information guide conservation prioritisation. The present study compared the historical current distribution patterns, together with habitat associations "Kowie" in Koonap Kat rivers, tributaries Great Fish River. This indicated lineage has extirpated from one localities River where it was historically abundant. In River, comparable its range, but future persistence by presence non-native piscivores, instream physical barriers potential exploration shale gas infrastructure development Karoo Basin. A generalised hurdle negative binomial model revealed although lineage's probability occurrence habitats boulder sand substrates, low conductivity, characteristics were poor predictors abundance. Thus, postulated range probably represents available different life stages taxon. Alternatively, observed patterns may suggest possibility shift associations, possibly optimum utilisation remaining refugia within river system. Immediate measures should focus on preventing spread invasive fishes, whereas studies evaluate impacts population fragmentation identify appropriate intervention maintain long-term adaptive potential.