Known only from one dark, underground lake in Aigamas Cave near Otavi. This is severely threatened by the depletion of water levels in local Karstland aquifers, which has caused lake levels in Aigamas Cave to decrease by about 20 m since 1921. Fishing pressure by aquarists could further threaten this species. Conservation action includes prohibiting the translocation of alien fishes and the pollution of cave lakes; and access to the cave or collection of specimens should have permit from the owner of Aigamas farm (Ref. 26175). Also Ref. 248, 13332, 27553. Also known from Interior (Ref. 33857).

Status of theat: Critically endangered listed in IUCN 1994 (Ref. 52863). Threatened (Ref. 54854).