Murray cod

Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii) is a large Australian freshwater fish of the Maccullochella genus and the Percichthyidae family. It is the largest exclusively freshwater fish in Australia, and one of the largest in the world.

Description

The Murray cod is a large, heavy-bodied fish with a deep, elongated body that is round in cross section. It has a broad, scooped head, and a large mouth lined with pads of very small, needle-like teeth. The eyes are large and noticeably protruding. The fish is white to cream on its ventral (underneath) surfaces.

Distribution and habitat

Murray cod are native to the Murray-Darling river system in Australia. They are found in clear, slow-flowing streams and rivers, usually among logs and rocks. They prefer water temperatures between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius.

Diet

Murray cod are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of animals. Their diet includes other fish, crustaceans, water birds, frogs, and mice.

Reproduction

Murray cod reproduce in the spring and summer, laying their eggs on hard surfaces such as rocks and logs. The male guards the eggs until they hatch.

Conservation status

The Murray cod is listed as "critically endangered" on the IUCN Red List due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution.

Cultural significance

The Murray cod holds significant cultural value for many Aboriginal Australian communities, who consider it a totem species.

See also

• Fish of Australia
• Murray River
• Darling River