Stokell's smelt facts for kids

The Stokell's smelt (Stokellia anisodon) is a very special little fish. It lives only in the freshwater rivers of New Zealand. This small fish is quite unique because it's the only type of fish in its entire group, called a genus. It's like being the only one of your kind!

What is a Stokell's Smelt?

The Stokell's smelt is a tiny fish. It usually grows to be about 7 to 9 centimeters long. That's roughly the length of your finger! It has a slender body and is often silvery in color. This helps it blend in with the water.

A Unique Fish

This fish is named after Gerald Stokell, who first described it in 1941. The Stokell's smelt is part of a family of fish called Retropinnidae. What makes it so special is that it's the only species in its genus, Stokellia. This means there are no other fish exactly like it in the world.

Where Do Stokell's Smelt Live?

Stokell's smelt are found in a specific part of New Zealand. They live in rivers along the east coast of the South Island. You can find them in rivers between the Waiau and Waitaki Rivers.

Their River Home

These fish prefer clear, cool rivers. They often live in parts of the river with gravel or sandy bottoms. This habitat provides them with places to hide and find food. They are freshwater fish, meaning they live their whole lives in rivers and streams, not in the ocean.

What's Happening to Stokell's Smelt?

Sadly, the number of Stokell's smelt has been going down quickly in recent years. This is a big concern for people who care about New Zealand's unique wildlife.

Why Are Their Numbers Declining?

There are a few reasons why these fish are struggling.

• Habitat Loss: Rivers can change due to human activities. Things like pollution, taking too much water for farms, or building things near rivers can harm their homes.
• Predators: Sometimes, new animals are introduced to an area. These new animals might eat the smelt or compete with them for food.
• Climate Change: Changes in weather patterns can affect river temperatures and water levels. This can make it harder for the smelt to survive.

How Can We Help Stokell's Smelt?

Many people are working to protect the Stokell's smelt. Conservation efforts are very important to help these unique fish survive.

Protecting Their Home

One of the best ways to help is to protect their river habitats. This means keeping rivers clean and making sure there's enough water for the fish. It also involves planting trees along riverbanks. These trees help keep the water cool and prevent soil from washing into the river.

Research and Monitoring

Scientists are studying the Stokell's smelt to learn more about them. Understanding their life cycle and what they need to survive helps us protect them better. By monitoring their numbers, we can see if conservation efforts are working. Every little bit helps to ensure these special fish continue to swim in New Zealand's rivers for a long time!