EEP page - Cichlids
Critical endangered (CR) species are the main focus of this EEP. The Extinct in the wild category contains no species in August 2024 but this can change rapidly, and focus will be on the status of this group as well preventing the further extinction of cichlid species. Species rarely kept by private aquarists, breeders, zoos, aquariums, and other institutions will have highest priority. Domesticated strains are excluded from the EEP.
What are the EEP roles?
| Insurance |
| This role contemplates the possibility to maintain long-term ex situ populations to preserve options for the future. The ex situ populations are a potential future source to build up (long-term) populations for reintroduction. |
| Research and monitoring in situ) |
| There is need for research and supporting research in country with focus on background information such as habitat, biology and threats and developing Best Practice Guidelines to tackle any issues with breeding. There is also further need for monitoring to find out the real status in the wild and where EAZA can get involved. |
EEP in numbers
The Coordinator has put together a list of priority species that they would like institutions to focus on within EAZA and EUAC. Please contact the Coordinator if you are interested in getting involved.
Programme highlights
- The IUCN Species Specialist Group Freshwater Fishes has a new website.
- Zooquaria 119 (Autumn 2023) features an article which calls for institutions to become involved in keeping endangered freshwater fish. Zooquaria 125 (spring 2025) featured an article on the priority species in freshwater fish.
