Mountain Galaxias
Galaxias olidus
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Quick Facts
Distribution
Interesting Info
- The Mountain Galaxias is a freshwater fish species that is native to Australia, primarily found in Victoria and New South Wales.
- It has a slender body with a rounded head and small, upturned mouth. Its body coloration is variable, ranging from olive-green to brown on the back, with a silver-white underside. The fish’s scales are small and finely patterned, giving it a speckled appearance.
- They feed on small invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and molluscs.
- The species is known to be relatively tolerant of low levels of dissolved oxygen and cold water temperatures.
- Mountain Galaxias spawn in the early winter months, and the eggs are laid in the substrate of the river or stream bed.
- They are listed as a threatened species in Australia.
- Their lifespan is estimated to be around 3-5 years.
Species Interaction
Recreational Fishing
Mountain Galaxias are a popular target for recreational fishing in some areas of Australia, particularly in the Snowy Mountains and the Australian Alps. However, they are a threatened species in many areas, and regulations may be in place to protect their populations.
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Osmeriformes
Family: Galaxiidae
Genus: Galaxias
Species: Galaxias olidus
Conservation Status
Mountain Galaxias is considered to be a threatened species in Australia. In Victoria, they are listed as a threatened species under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. In New South Wales, the species is listed as an endangered species under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Under the Australian government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, Mountain Galaxias is listed as a vulnerable species.
How to catch
Mountain Galaxias
Catch Difficulty: Intermediate
Tackle: Artificial Rig
Bait: Lures, Insects, Flies
Technique: Cast lures close to structure
Popularity: Popular
