Flathead galaxias (Australia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Flathead galaxias |
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The flathead galaxias (Galaxias rostratus) is a small freshwater fish. It lives in rivers and streams in the low-lying areas of the southern Murray-Darling river system in Australia. These fish are often found in quiet waters like billabongs and backwaters.
Many native fish in the Murray-Darling system live in either high-up (upland) or low-down (lowland) parts of the rivers. The flathead galaxias prefers the lowland areas. Other fish, like the mountain galaxias, live in the higher, cooler parts of the rivers.
What Does a Flathead Galaxias Look Like?
The flathead galaxias looks a lot like the common galaxias. However, it has a special feature: a noticeably flat head. It also has bigger eyes and a longer snout.
Its body is usually olive green on the back and sides. It might have some faint grey or green blotches. The belly of the fish is silvery. Adult flathead galaxias are typically about 9 cm (about 3.5 inches) long. Some can grow up to 12 cm (about 4.7 inches).
Why Are Flathead Galaxias in Danger?
Scientists are very worried about the flathead galaxias. This fish, along with many other small native fish, is disappearing from large parts of the Murray-Darling basin. In fact, the species is now considered extinct in South Australia.
There are a few reasons for this decline. One big problem is how rivers are managed, like building dams. Another major issue is the destruction of clear water and underwater plants. These plants are important for the fish. They use them for shelter, finding food, and laying their eggs.
An introduced fish called the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is causing a lot of damage. These carp stir up the water, making it cloudy. They also destroy the important plant beds. This makes it very hard for the flathead galaxias and other small native fish to survive.
- Froese, Rainer, and Daniel Pauly, eds. (2005). "Galaxias rostratus" in FishBase. 10 2005 version.
