22KKjpeg Ross Relix photo. 40mm (1.6in) TL. The picture is of Ambassis agassizi, from the Murray-Darling Drainage Basin, a closely related species to A. mulleri.

Taxonomy

Due to a revision of Ambassidae (Allen & Burgess 1989), all previous records of A. castelnaui for Central Australia are now applicable to the western chanda perch (A. mulleri). Past records of pennyfish (Denariusa bandata) are based upon a misidentification of western chanda perch; thus they are now also referable to it.

Size

To at least 60mm (2.4in) TL.

Conservation Status

Not listed

Distribution & Abundance

Western chanda perch are widespread in the larger rivers, although their abundance fluctuates greatly. It is known by only one specimen from the Diamantina River collected in 1978 (Australian Museum records). They are listed by Merrick & Schmida (1984) as occurring in the Bulloo-Bancannia Drainage, however I have been unable to confirm this.

Habitat & Ecology

Western chanda perch typically occur in waterholes in medium to large rivers. Most ambassids are reported to be carnivorous.

Reproduction

Virtually nothing is known of their breeding biology. It is probably similar to other ambassids, although few studies have been carried out on this family in Australia.

Threats

None specifically.

Conservation Action

Not relevant.

Conservation Recommendations

Undertake basic biological and ecological research.

Important References

Allen, G. R. & Burgess, W. E. 1990. A review of the glassfishes (Chandidae) of Australia and New Guinea. Records of the Western Australian Museum. Supplement No. 34. pp 139-207.

Merrick, J. R. & Schmida, G. E. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes: Biology and Management. Griffith Press Ltd. 409pp.

This file was last modified:  18 March 2003