Taxonomy

This species strongly resembles Lake's carp gudgeon from the Murray Darling System. However, more specimens need to be examined before this can be clarified, thus this identification remains tentative. The taxonomy of hypseleotrids from eastern and south-eastern Australia is presently unresolved. It appears that several undescribed species are present. Differentiating between adults of these species is difficult. Juveniles cannot be distinguished.

Size

To around 40-60mm (1.6-2.4in) TL.

Conservation Status

Not listed.

Distribution & Abundance

They have only been collected in upper portions of the Barcoo and Thompson Rivers in the Cooper Creek Drainage. It appears to be the rarest of the three Hypseleotris spp.

Habitat & Ecology

Typically found in riverine habitats. They appear to be more common in the upper reaches of rivers where more waterholes tend to occur. They are usually carnivorous.

Reproduction

Adult Lake's carp gudgeon are sexually dimorphic. Virtually nothing else is known about their reproduction, although it appears similar to Midgley's carp gudgeon (P. Unmack unpub. data).

Threats

None specifically.

Conservation Action

Not relevant.

Conservation Recommendations

Undertake research into the taxonomy, biology, and ecology of central Australian populations.

Important References

This file was last modified:  18 March 2003