Found in the Iberian Peninsula (Ref. 119049). Inhabits the southwestern Portuguese drainages Mira, Arade and the smaller Bensafrim (the population from Bensafrim drainage was assigned to the new taxon through molecular markers analysis; Mesquita et al. unpublished data). Although it is locally abundant, its very limited range, coupled with a high dependence on the spatial heterogeneity and temporal dynamics of the lotic systems it inhabits, increases the species’ vulnerability to anthropogenic activities. Therefore, habitat homogenisation or destruction, by altered land use, damming, water extraction or introduction of exotic species, may significantly affect the species’ survival in the future, justifying the inclusion of this species in the Critically Endangered category of IUCN Red List (Ref. 55426). Also Ref. 59043.

Status of threat: Critically endangered (Ref. 119049).