New Zealand Fresh Water Fish

New Zealand has in the order of 35 native freshwater fish. The Grayling, Upokororo in Maori, was a large fish growing to 400mm and found in large numbers over a wide range in the 19th century, it is now extinct.

Many of our remaining freshwater fish and freshwater species are now listed as threatened. 90% of wetlands have been drained and predatory fish such as trout have been introduced. New Zealand also has a freshwater crab and two species of freshwater crayfish. Our Giant Kokopu can grow to 450mm, and its colour pattern such as the galaxy, gives rise to the family name Galaxiidae. No eggs of this species have ever been found. The Black Mudfish, in the video blow, is now very rare.