This species is considered Endangered by the IUCN as it has declined much in recent decades. The main threat is the introduced smallmouth bass ("Micropterus dolomieu"), which has killed off the stocks of the fish in the Berg River watershed by eating juveniles. In Brandvlei Dam, where the barb's population is most healthy, the African catfish ("Clarias gariepinus") is spreading; its impact will need to be assessed. The common carp ("Cyprinus carpio") and Mozambique tilapia ("Oreochromis mossambicus"), introduced for aquaculture, are competing with the Cape whitefish for food. Water pollution is also a problem.