Shortjaw kokopu facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shortjaw kokopu |
|
|---|---|
,_Heao_Stream,_Waitaanga_Forest._Photo_by_Stella_McQueen.jpg) |
|
| Shortjaw Kokopu | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification |
The shortjaw kokopu (Galaxias postvectis) is a special type of fish. It belongs to a family called galaxiids. This fish is found only in New Zealand, which means it is endemic there.
Shortjaw kokopu are large fish. They do not have scales, unlike many other fish. They like to live in calm pools found in rocky streams. These streams usually have lots of trees nearby.
About the Shortjaw Kokopu
The shortjaw kokopu is a unique fish from New Zealand. It was first described in 1899 by F. E. Clarke. These fish can grow quite big. They can reach up to 350 millimeters (about 14 inches) long. However, most of them are usually between 150 and 200 millimeters (about 6 to 8 inches) long.
Where They Live
Shortjaw kokopu live in very specific places. They prefer streams that have a lot of large rocks and boulders. These streams often flow through forests, which provide shade and cover. The fish like parts of the stream that are calm, like pools.
During the day, these fish often hide among large rocks. They like areas where the water is a bit rougher. At night, they move to calmer spots, such as quiet pools. This helps them stay safe and find food.
Their Amazing Life Cycle
The shortjaw kokopu has a fascinating life cycle. It is called amphidromous. This means that the fish uses both fresh water and salt water during its life.
- When the baby fish, called fry, hatch, they travel to the sea.
- They spend some time growing in the ocean.
- After a while, when they are a bit older, they swim back to fresh water.
- They then live and grow into adult fish in the streams and rivers.
This journey between fresh water and the sea is very important for their survival.
