Herichthys steindachneri (Jordan & Snyder, 1899)

Conservation: Herichthys steindachneri n'est pas évalué par l'Union Internationale pour la Conservation de la Nature dans la Liste rouge des espèces menacées. Herichthys steindachneri is listed in the Mexican Official Norm NOM-059-ECOL-2001 with classification P (Subject to special protection).

Although some areas of the Herichthys steindachneri habitat remain pretty stable, a good part of the range down river from the town of Tambaca over the years has been mercilessly destroyed by the sugar cane industry, which is one of the main income sources in the valley of Rascón. Ecological regulations are not followed by the industry and there is very little enforcement efforts or intentions by government authorities, which apparently couldn't care less for the place.

The valley of Rascón, being one of the most beautiful places in México, with popular swimming places like "Puente de Dios", "Las Cascadas" and "El Trampolin" that could rival the beauty of any place in the world, has been affected by the destroying human activity year after year, increasing drastically in recent years. The sides of the mountains that surround the valley are being cut out everyday, presenting a sad spectacle and bringing down to the rivers sediments washed out by the rains, thus affecting the ecology. Garbage left by unconscious visitors is a common sight in the popular places through the valley.

In the almost 30 years I have been a frequent visitor to the valley things have unfortunately changed for the worse with every passing year. It is my hope that this fantastic valley gets the respect and protection it deserves. I am convinced that future research on the valley will unveil some fascinating evolutionary facts. This valley should urgently be protected!.