Salamanderfish
Lepidogalaxias salamandroides
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Quick Facts
Scientific name
Lepidogalaxias salamandroides
Other names
Dwarf Pencilfish, Long Finned Galaxias, Mud Minnow, Scaled Galaxias
Size
Up to 7.4 cm (2.91 in)
Weight
A few grams
Distribution
Habitat & AU Distribution
Shallow freshwater streams, creeks, drains & temporary pools in sandy areas
Depth Range
0 - 1 m (3 ft)
Interesting Info
- The Salamanderfish is a freshwater fish found only in southwestern Western Australia. It is only found in the headwaters of rivers and streams and is threatened by habitat destruction and invasive species.
- It is commonly known as the salamanderfish due to its appearance and behaviour, which are reminiscent of salamanders.
- The Salamanderfish has a unique ability to absorb oxygen through its skin, which is similar to the way amphibians breathe.
- It has a scaleless, elongated body with a flattened head and small eyes.
- They have a very low metabolic rate and can survive for long periods without food.
- Females are generally larger than males and can produce up to 50 eggs during the breeding season.
- he species is a bottom-dwelling fish and feeds on small invertebrates and insects that live in the riverbed.
- The Salamanderfish is a living fossil, with its lineage dating back to the early Jurassic period, over 180 million years ago.
- Estimated lifespan is up to 15 years in the wild.
Species Interaction
Minimal Species Contact
Interactions between people and Salamanderfish in the wild are generally limited and are typically focused on scientific research and conservation efforts to protect this unique and ancient species.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Lepidogalaxiiformes
Family: Lepidogalaxiidae
Genus: Lepidogalaxias
Species: Lepidogalaxias salamandroides
Conservation Status
The Salamanderfish is listed as a threatened species in Western Australia, where it is found. The species is listed as Endangered under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and it is also listed as Critically Endangered under the Western Australian Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.
