Telestes metohiensis (Steindachner, 1901)
Telestes metohiensis
photo by Bogutskaya, N.G. et al.

Family:  Leuciscidae (Minnows), subfamily: Leuciscinae
Max. size:  10 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater
Distribution:  Europe: streams and springs in Nevesinje, Gacko, Cernica and Dabar poljes, probably also Lukovac polje in Bosnia-Herzegovina; recorded in 1901 from Ljuta drainage in southern Croatia, not seen there since.
Diagnosis:  Vertebrae: 38-41. Diagnosed from its congeners by having the following characters: very thin, not overlapping scales; entire body covered by scales, often not overlapping, especially in pre-pelvic area; narrow dark midlateral stripe from opercle to caudal base, separated from dark area on back by an unpigmentd stripe; dorsal fin with 7-8½ branched rays; anal fin with 8½ branched rays; snout stout, markedly rounded, mouth subterminal; skin not thickened, scales distinct; lateral line usually almost complete, if interrupted, only narrowly in a few places, with 51-70 total scales (Ref. 59043).
Biology:  Occurs in lakes and in water courses at high altitudes and on low plains, with little current (Ref. 26100). Inhabits streams with clear water. Enters subterranean waters in karstic areas. Ripe individuals are encountered in May (Ref. 59043). Threatened due to pollution and habitat destruction (Ref. 26100).
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 31 January 2006 (B1ab(ii,iii)+2ab(ii,iii)) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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