Dwarf galaxias

The endangered dwarf galaxias (Galaxias divergens ) is found in riffley marginal shallows of larger rivers and in gravel/cobble riffles of smaller streams, mostly in foothill catchments. It requires good riparian cover, streamside shade and logs and/or boulders instream. Its most common food is the aquatic larvae of mayflies and midges.

In the North Island, the dwarf galaxias occurs in the headwaters of the Waihou River near Putaruru, at a few sites in the Rangitaiki River near Galatea in Hawke’s Bay and in the Wellington region. In the South Island, it occurs in Marlborough and Nelson and on the West Coast as far south as the Hokitika River.

Acknowledgement: Bob McDowall