This species may not be taken without a permit, unless captured by the use of a bush pole. A bush pole is defined as a length of wood that is not less than one metre in length and does not have a reel and running line. Juveniles are often found in whitebait runs, for which there is a restricted recreational season requiring a Whitebait Licence

Small elongated fish that have a single soft-rayed dorsal fin on their back. There are no scales present, but they do have a lateral line. The anal fin origin begins behind the dorsal fin origin

Colour pattern is variable depending on habitat and location, but generally adults have regular small spots with surrounding halos on their sides, and black edges on their dorsal, pelvic and anal fins. They have a distinct stripe passing back and down through the eyes. Body colour varies from black on the back with brown sides to a dark purplish colour all over

Commonly from 70 to 140 mm, but up to 200 mm

Native to Tasmania and the southern mainland, they are one of the more common galaxias. They occur in both landlocked and riverine populations. Maturity is not reached until at least two years of age

In riverine populations spawning takes place in autumn, probably near their normal habitat. They are believed to spawn amongst roots of emergent vegetation below the water surface. The larvae are swept to sea and return 5-6 months latter as part of the whitebait run in spring. Landlocked populations breed in spring

Riverine populations appear to prefer lower elevation quiet streams where they are found in pools with cover from log debris, overhanging banks and boulders. Landlocked lake populations are often at higher elevations. Juveniles will form schools that are often seen in late summer

A carnivorous fish feeding on a wide range of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates

Loss of instream habitat; In-stream barriers preventing migration; Contaminants entering rivers and streams; Bank and stream-bed erosion leading to increased turbidity and sedimentation; Loss of riparian vegetation

Common and widespread in coastal drainages as well as numerous landlocked populations in inland lakes