Zeravshan dace, Leuciscus lehmanni
The Zeravshan dace, Leuciscus lehmanni, is a native freshwater fish species endemic to the Zeravshan and Amu Darya drainages, part of the Aral Sea Basin in Central Asia including Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Morphologically, it is characterized by dorsal fin rays numbering III 7-8, anal fin rays III 8-10, and lateral line scales ranging from 42 to 48. The species exhibits a maximum recorded size of 22 cm in length and 160 g in weight. Its distribution, biology, and ecology remain poorly studied, but it is known to inhabit lowland and foothill regions of the Zeravshan River, typically in areas with slow-flowing water and substrates dominated by mid-sized rocks. It coexists with other native fish species, including Capoeta heratensis, Schizothorax fedtschenkoi, and Triplophysa uranoscopus. The Zeravshan dace is primarily algivorous, feeding on algae, but also consumes insect larvae.
The species faces significant threats from anthropogenic activities, including damming, habitat alteration, and the introduction of invasive fish species. Additionally, extensive soil excavation in the Zeravshan River basin has led to the degradation and destruction of its suitable habitats. Due to limited research and ecological data, the conservation status and population trends of the Zeravshan dace remain uncertain, necessitating further studies to inform effective management and protection strategies.
Nominated by FFSG Member Akbarjon Rozimov, Uzbekistan