Oryzias sarasinorum

The Sarasin’s minnow, scientifically known as Oryzias sarasinorum, is a notable species of ricefish from the Adrianichthyidae family. This intriguing fish is endemic to Lake Lindu, situated within Lore Lindu National Park on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia. It was first described in 1905 by C.M.L. Popta under the name Haplochilus sarasinorum. The species was named in honor of Swiss naturalists and cousins Paul Sarasin and Fritz Sarasin, with Fritz being responsible for collecting the initial specimen.

Although the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports that the population of Sarasin’s minnow is currently stable, the species faces several severe threats. Introduced non-native species such as the common carp, Mozambique tilapia, and walking catfish pose significant dangers. Moreover, the water quality in Lake Lindu is deteriorating due to increased agricultural activities in the surrounding area. These factors have led to Sarasin’s minnow being classified as Critically Endangered.

Efforts to protect this unique species are essential to preserve the delicate ecosystem of Lake Lindu and ensure that Sarasin’s minnow does not disappear forever.