Krom River redfin

Pseudobarbus senticeps

The Krom River redfin was identified years ago by famed coelacanth expert J.L.B. Smith. Smith had described a redfin species from the Krom River system in the Eastern Cape, and named it Barbus senticeps. But this species was later identified as the same fish as the Eastern Cape redfin, Pseudobarbus afer. Recent studies have confirmed that Smith’s redfin is indeed a species in its own right. After additional studies by Doctor Albert Chakona and Prof. Paul Skelton, which was published in the ZooKeys journal, the fish is now officially called Pseudobarbus senticeps. Size and biology The breeding biology of this species has not yet been studied, but it’s likely to be similar to its congeners, which breed in summer. Further studies are also required to determine its diet. Habitat Pseudobarbus senticeps occurs in perennial streams with clear to peat stained water, and heterogeneous substrates (boulders, cobbles and pebbles). It’s likely to have also occurred in the mainstream sections of the Krom River, but these habitats are now dominated by non-native species. Catch me if you can It’s a fish usually caught by fly fishermen, while nets are the most effective capture method for research purposes. The clear mountain streams of the Cape Floristic Region also offer a unique opportunity to snorkel and see them up close. If you do catch one, please release them alive – and in the same place. Don’t move them from one catchment area to another as it can cause genetic pollution through hybridisation. That’s a record The biggest recorded Krom River redfin is 8 cm long. SASSI status They are currently listed as critically endangered, meaning this species faces an extremely high risk of extinction. Major threats include invasion by alien fish, as well as habitat degradation and water abstraction. Text Dr. Albert Chakona Photo Ernst Swartz © Southern African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB)