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Spotted Galaxias

Spotted Galaxias

Galaxias truttaceus

Quick Facts

Scientific name Galaxias truttaceus

Other names Mountain Trout, Native Trout, Ocellated Mountain Trout, Spotted Mountain Trout, Spotted Trout, Trout Galaxias, Trout Minnow, Western Mountain Trout, Yarra Trout

Size Up to 20 cm (7.87 in)

Weight Under 20 grams

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Freshwater streams, creeks, rivers & lakes amongst wooden debris & aquatic vegetation

Depth Range 0 - 4 m (13 ft)

Interesting Info

The Spotted Galaxias is a species of freshwater fish that is native to Australia. It is endemic to the eastern regions of the country, where it is found in streams and rivers in the Australian Alps and surrounding areas.
The Spotted Galaxias has a dark greenish-brown back and silver sides with distinctive dark spots that vary in size and density.
It feeds primarily on aquatic invertebrates, such as insects and crustaceans, and occasionally on small fish.
During the breeding season, male Spotted Galaxias develop breeding tubercles on their head and operculum, and their coloration becomes more intense. They also become territorial and aggressive towards other males.
Spawning usually occurs in shallow riffles or runs in streams, where females lay adhesive eggs on gravel or other submerged substrates. The males then fertilise the eggs, and both parents may guard the eggs and newly hatched fry.
The species is threatened and on multiple protection acts.
Their lifespan is estimated to be around 2-4 years.

Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing

Spotted Galaxias are targeted by recreational anglers for sport fishing, but regulations are in place to limit the impact on wild populations.

Species
Sustainability

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Salmoniformes

Family: Galaxiidae

Genus: Galaxias

Species: Galaxias truttaceus

Conservation Status

The Spotted Galaxias is listed as “Endangered” under the national EPBC (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation) Act 1999. It is also listed as “Endangered” under the state conservation legislation in Victoria and Tasmania, where the species is found.