Abstract
Taxonomy of the complex minnow genus Puntius in northern Palawan, Philippines, was analyzed based on morphology of fishes from six drainage basins. Conservation status also was assessed following IUCN criteria for threatened species. Results confirmed the presence of two endemic Puntius species in Lake Manguao. Two potentially new species of Puntius also were discovered within that basin, suggesting the possibility of a small Puntius species flock. Geographic variation among populations from rivers outside the Manguao basin indicated possible additional species among riverine habitats in Palawan. Habitat surveys revealed freshwater ecosystems of northern Palawan were threatened by exotic species introductions and degradation from ongoing mining and deforestation. Conservation assessments indicated that Puntius populations of Manguao should have Critically Endangered status under IUCN criteria because of small habitat area and ongoing disturbances. Lake Manguao should be granted protected status because of endangered fishes and other terrestrial vertebrates dependent on that unique ecosystem.