Ala Balik

The Ala Balik, <em>Salmo platycephalus</em>, is a critically threatened endemic trout belonging to the family Salmonidae, restricted to a small number of cold, fast-flowing river systems in south-central Anatolia, Turkey. The common name is derived from Turkish, where "ala" refers to the spotted coloration typical of the species. Adults can reach a maximum recorded length of approximately 55 cm, though most individuals encountered are considerably smaller. This species inhabits clear, cold, highly oxygenated headwater streams and upper river reaches with gravel and cobble substrate, conditions typical of salmonid habitat in mountainous environments. <em>Salmo platycephalus</em> is recognised by its distinctive flattened head profile, from which the specific epithet <em>platycephalus</em> is derived. Like other members of the genus <em>Salmo</em>, it is thought to be an opportunistic predator, consuming aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and terrestrial insects that fall onto the water surface. The species faces severe conservation pressures including habitat degradation from water extraction, dam construction, and hybridisation with introduced salmonid species. <em>Salmo platycephalus</em> is assessed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, reflecting its extremely restricted range and declining population trend. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection within its native Turkish river systems.