Pseudaphritis urvillii
| Pseudaphritis urvillii | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Pseudaphritidae |
| Genus: | Pseudaphritis |
| Species: | P. urvillii |
| Binomial name | |
| Pseudaphritis urvillii (Valenciennes, 1832) | |
Pseudaphritis urvillii is the only species of fish in the family Pseudaphritidae and the genus Pseudaphritis. It is known also as the catadromous icefish, the tupong[1] or even more commonly as the congolli.
Distribution and habitat
Pseudaphritis urvillii is found in fresh, brackish, and marine waters around south eastern Australia including Tasmania.[2] It lives mostly in sluggish estuaries and streams. Water temperatures in its habitat range from 5 to 20 °C (41 to 68 °F). This fish will inhabit areas with log snags, over hanging banks, and leaves that fell into the water. Between late April and August, it migrates south to estuaries to breed.[2]
Description
The largest adult measured is about 36 centimetres (14 in) long.[2] Usually, adults grow up to 17 centimetres (6.7 in) long.[2]
Ecology
Diet
The congoli feeds on insects, fish, crustaceans, worms, mollusks, and other invertebrates.[2]
Behavior
Congolis are ambush predators that usually bury themselves in the substrate.[2] During the time period between late April and August, it migrates south to estuaries to reproduce.
Importance to humans
Occasionally, this fish is caught for food. It shows a minor importance to commercial fishing.[2] The congoli is also caught by anglers.
Reproduction
Adults migrate south downstream to reproduce. It takes place between late April and August.[2]