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Shortjaw kokopu facts for kids

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Shortjaw kokopu
Adult shortjaw kokopu (Galaxias postvectis), Heao Stream, Waitaanga Forest. Photo by Stella McQueen.jpg
Shortjaw Kokopu
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Shortjaw Kokopu

The shortjaw kokopu (Galaxias postvectis) is a galaxiid fish, endemic to New Zealand. They are large, scaleless fish which inhabit stable pools in cascading, bouldery streams with forest cover. Shortjaw kokopu are amphidromous, with the fry going to sea after hatching, and returning as juveniles to fresh water where they grow to adulthood. They may grow to a maximum of 350 mm (14 in) in total length, but more commonly reach 150–200 mm (5.9–7.9 in).

The shortjaw kokopu live in microhabitats that have more large particles at the bed of the body of water (substrates) and more places to seek safety compared to all nearby possible habitats. During the night, they remain in calmer areas like pools, whereas during the day shortjaw kokopu spend their time in places with large substrates and a more tumultuous water surface, staying in both flow channel and pool habits.

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