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Leopard barbel
Scientific name: Luciobarbus subquincunciatus
Range: Tigris-Euphrates river system in Eastern Turkey, Eastern Syria, Iran, Iraq
When last seen: FOUND!
Suspected reason for disappearance: Overfishing, habitat loss, eutrophication, dam construction and water abstraction.
IUCN conservation status: Critically Endangered
Facts: Also known as the Mesopotamian barbel or spot barb. Known amongst local community as the ‘commando’ fish, due to its perceived superiority to other fishes in the region. Prized as a food fish. Was once abundant in certain locations but has declined rapidly over the past 30 years or more.
Size: Grows up to 60cm.
