Taxonomy

Previous references to leathery grunter (S. hillii) in Central Australia are applicable to Barcoo grunter.

Size

To at least 350mm (14in) TL.

Conservation Status

Not listed

Distribution & Abundance

Prior to 1975, it was only known to science by the single holotype collected in 1916. In Central Australia, this species is now adequately recorded from Cooper Creek and Georgina River. No specimens are present in museum collections from the Barkley Drainage Basin, Bulloo, and Diamantina Rivers, although Barcoo grunters are considered to exist there. Within these rivers it is generally widespread. They are thought to be uncommon, although they may be locally abundant at times. This species is also known from a few rivers in the Gulf of Carpentaria Drainage Division.

Habitat & Ecology

Typically found in large permanent and semi-permanent waterholes in the major rivers and their larger tributaries. In captivity they are omnivorous.

Reproduction

Virtually nothing is known of its biology. They appear to spawn during flooding. Males are thought to mature at 280mm (11.2in) TL, females at 250mm (10in) TL. It is estimated that mature females would contain around 50,000 eggs. (Merrick & Schmida 1984).

Threats

None specifically.

Conservation Action

Not relevant.

Conservation Recommendations

Undertake studies into their biology and ecology.

Important References

Merrick, J. R. & Schmida, G. E. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes: Biology and Management. Griffith Press Ltd. 409pp.

This file was last modified:  18 March 2003