Mar 212014
 

Original story by Virginia Tapp, ABC Rural

An introduced fish species has been discovered in what was previously one of the country’s last remaining pest-free river systems.
Plague Minnow (Gambusia holbrooki), also known as the Mosquito fish.

Plague Minnow (Gambusia holbrooki), also known as the Mosquito fish.

Fish ecologists Alf Hogan and Terry Vallance made the discovery while surveying the Leichardt river in north-west Queensland.

They believe the Plague Minnow (Gambusia holbrooki) could have devastating impacts on native fish populations.

Sketch of a female Plague minnow fish. Image: Southern Gulf Catchments

Sketch of a female Plague minnow fish. Image: Southern Gulf Catchments

The species was originally introduced from America to control the mosquito population and already exists in plague proportions on Queensland’s east coast.

They have spread through the Leichhardt River system, which has a catchment area of approximately 33,000 square kilometres, and there is little hope for eradication.

Local environment worker Mick Brady says the Plague Minnow will attack larger, native species.

“Any pest animal or plant or weed species can be a problem, just because they outcompete native animals for food and habitat.

“This particular fish is really aggressive. They say they bite the fins of natives, they can eat the eggs of native fish, and it upsets the whole ecology of the area.”

It is believed the fish were deliberately released into the Leichardt River.

Any sightings of non-native fish species should be reported immediately to the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline 1800 017 116.

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