Longfin Eel

Interesting Info

• The Longfin Eel is a freshwater eel species native to Australia. It is found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including rivers, creeks, swamps, and lakes, throughout most of eastern Australia and parts of southern Australia.
• Longfin Eels have a dark brown or greenish-black coloration on their back and sides, with a pale yellow or white underbelly, and are characterised by their long, slender bodies and small, round heads.
• The Longfin Eels’ migration to the ocean for spawning is triggered by changes in water temperature, flow rate, and other environmental cues. Once in the ocean, the males and females mate, and the females release millions of tiny eggs into the water. The eggs then hatch into larvae, which spend several months drifting in ocean currents before reaching the coastal areas.
• The migration of Longfin Eels is one of the longest recorded migrations of any freshwater fish species in the world, with individuals travelling up to 5,000 kilometres to reach their spawning grounds.
• It is a nocturnal species, often feeding at night on a variety of prey, including insects, crustaceans, and fish.
• Longfin Eels have been observed exhibiting cooperative hunting behaviour, where multiple individuals work together to capture prey.
• They are a long-lived species, known to live up to 60 years.