A population of a rare native freshwater fish, colloquially referred to as ‘jaws’, was rescued just in time thanks to the prompt removal of predatory trout.
In the Waitaki catchment, the endangered lowland longjaw galaxias (Galaxias cobitinis) teeter on the brink of extinction. These unique fish, characterised by their long lower jaws, are found in just a few tributaries. Recent monitoring revealed a large decline in their population, with only 12 individuals spotted where nearly 100 once thrived.
But what happened? Two brown trout breaching an exclusion barrier after a significant flood. Fortunately, swift action saved the remaining longjaws, but ongoing monitoring and management are crucial. Discover how you can help protect these fascinating fish and their delicate habitat from invasive threats and environmental changes.
Read the article on the DOC website here.