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Deep Hardyhead

Deep Hardyhead

Craterocephalus cuneiceps

Quick Facts

Scientific name Craterocephalus cuneiceps

Other names Deep Freshwater Hardyhead, Murchison River Hardyhead

Size Up to 8.5 cm (3.34 in)

Weight A few grams

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Freshwater streams, creeks & rivers in small pools & river beds

Depth Range 0 - 5 m (16 ft)

Interesting Info

The Deep Hardyhead is a species of freshwater fish found in Western Australia. They are commonly found in the Murchison River system.
The species is characterised by its elongated body shape, flattened head, and upturned mouth. The fish has a silver-grey coloration on its body, with a darker back and lighter underside.
The species is known to be resilient to changing environmental conditions, which has helped it to survive in habitats affected by drought and climate change.
They are an omnivore, feeding on a variety of small insects, crustaceans, and algae.
The species is known to breed year-round, with peak breeding occurring during the warmer months of the year. Females are capable of producing multiple clutches of eggs throughout their lifespan, with each clutch containing around 20-30 eggs.
The Deep Hardyhead has a unique spawning behaviour where the eggs are laid in submerged vegetation and then covered with small pebbles to protect them from predators.
Their lifespan is estimated to be around 2 years.

Species Interaction

Aquarium

Deep Hardyheads are not commonly kept as an aquarium fish and are not widely available in the pet trade. Though they are sometimes kept by experienced aquarium hobbyists, as they require specialised care and a suitable habitat that mimics their natural environment.

Species
Sustainability

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Atheriniformes

Family: Atherinidae

Genus: Craterocephalus

Species: Craterocephalus cuneiceps

Conservation Status

The conservation status of the Deep Hardyhead, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is currently listed as “Least Concern”. This means that the species is not considered to be facing any immediate threats to its survival, and its population is believed to be stable.