Cyclocheilichthys schoppeae is a species of freshwater cyprinid fish in the genus Cyclocheilichthys, endemic to the northern region of Palawan in the Philippines.
Taxonomy and Naming
The species was described by Miguelito Cervancia and Maurice Kottelat in 2007, based on holotype material collected from the Iraan River. The specific epithet schoppeae honors Sabine Schoppe, a German zoologist, ecologist, and marine biologist, in appreciation of her support to the studies and research of the first author.
The genus name Cyclocheilichthys derives from Greek: kyklos (round), cheilos (lip), and ichtys (fish).
Distribution and Habitat
This species is known only from the Barbacan, Abongan, and Babuyan river drainages in the northern third of Palawan, Philippines. It inhabits clear, slowly to fast-flowing streams, medium-sized rivers, and large rivers with gravel and muddy substrates.
Description
Cyclocheilichthys schoppeae reaches a maximum recorded length of 10.4 cm (standard length). It has 12 dorsal soft rays and 8 anal soft rays. The body shape is fusiform (streamlined). It is distinguished from all congeners by having 12 circumpeduncular scales.
Ecology and Diet
The species feeds primarily on shrimps, worms, insect larvae, and detritus.
Conservation Status
The IUCN Red List assesses Cyclocheilichthys schoppeae as Endangered (EN, criteria B1ab(iii)), as of September 2020. The primary threat is its restricted geographic range.
