Hidden beneath the surface of the Snowy Mountains’ pristine waters is one of Australia’s most critically endangered species – the Stocky Galaxias, or Stocky as we like to call it.
Hidden beneath the surface of the Snowy Mountains’ pristine waters is one of Australia’s most critically endangered species – the Stocky Galaxias, or Stocky as we like to call it.
First identified as a unique species in 2014, this tiny, elusive fish calls the pristine subalpine streams of the Snowy Mountains home. About 8cm long, Stocky loves cool, clear water and often hangs out in the shade, likely eating a diet of mayflies, stoneflies and other bugs.
Sadly Stocky is in trouble. Listed as critically endangered, Stocky no longer occurs in much of its historical habitat and is now only found in less than 6 km of two mountain streams. This restricted range means Stocky is extremely vulnerable to catastrophic events such as bushfires, and other threats including introduced aquatic and terrestrial species.
Stocky galaxias (Galaxias tantangara). Photo: Tarmo A. Raadik
Thankfully, management and conservation efforts are underway to help ensure Stocky’s survival and protect its fragile habitat.
Pictured from left are Luke Pearce Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), Charles Sturt University (CSU) Vice-Chancellor Professor Renee Leon, Gulbali Institute executive director Professor Lee Baumgartner, Amina Price (CSU), Jillian Keating (DPIRD), Mark Lintermans (Fish Fondler), Katie Doyle (CSU), Zac Rolfe (CSU), Jarred McPherson (CSU) and An Vu (CSU). Photo: Charles Sturt University.
A dedicated rehabilitation site in Kosciusko National Park has been constructed to give newly-homed Stocky a fin up in the battle for survival. This site features restored ponds and newly constructed artificial creeks, solar power to pump water and ensure consistent flow, extensive and diverse revegetation and habitat construction using logs and stones, water quality testing, waterbug surveys, and more. The aim of this site is to provide Stocky with a brand-new geographically distinct population, which can then be used for additional conservation efforts such as translocation and genetic diversification.
This work has been led by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, in partnership with the Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach, NSW Waterwatch, Charles Sturt University, Fish Fondler Pty Ltd, Petaurus Education Group, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, South East Local Lands Service and the Australian Government.
Hear from these partnerships about how Stocky were saved during the Black Summer bushfires, and the collaboration and knowledge-sharing that took place to ensure these tiny little fish have the best chance of survival for generations to come.
Most people don’t know Stocky exists! Share this page and video with family and friends, and help spread awareness about the importance of high country rivers and the unique species they support, like the Stocky Galaxias.
Taking small actions to look after our rivers can go a long way in supporting Stocky and his friends:
