Short-finned eel

Anguilla australis

Short-finned eel

The Short-finned eel (Anguilla australis) is a species of eel in the family Anguillidae. It is native to the freshwater and coastal regions of Australia, New Zealand, and some Pacific Islands. The species is known for its remarkable migratory behavior and is an important part of the ecosystem in its native habitats.

Description

The Short-finned eel has a long, cylindrical body covered with a layer of mucus that makes it slippery. Its coloration ranges from dark brown to olive green on the dorsal side, with a lighter, often yellowish, ventral side. The species is named for its relatively short dorsal fin compared to other eel species. Adult eels can grow up to 1 meter in length, although most are smaller.

Habitat

Short-finned eels inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, including rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They are also found in brackish and coastal waters. The species is highly adaptable and can survive in a range of water conditions.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the Short-finned eel is complex and involves several stages. The eels are catadromous, meaning they migrate from freshwater to the sea to spawn. The spawning grounds are believed to be in the Coral Sea, although the exact locations are still unknown. After hatching, the larvae, known as leptocephali, drift with the ocean currents until they reach the coastal waters of their native regions. They then transform into glass eels and migrate upstream to freshwater habitats, where they grow into adults.

Diet

Short-finned eels are opportunistic feeders. Their diet consists of a variety of aquatic and terrestrial prey, including invertebrates, fish, and even small mammals and birds. They are primarily nocturnal hunters, using their keen sense of smell to locate food.

Importance

The Short-finned eel plays a crucial role in the ecosystems it inhabits. It is a key predator and helps to maintain the balance of aquatic communities. Additionally, the species is of cultural and economic importance to indigenous peoples and local communities in Australia and New Zealand. Eels are harvested for food and are considered a delicacy in many cultures.

Conservation

While the Short-finned eel is not currently listed as endangered, it faces several threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and barriers to migration such as dams and weirs. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat restoration, improving water quality, and ensuring the connectivity of waterways to support the species' migratory needs.

See also

• Long-finned eel
• Anguillidae
• Catadromous fish
• Freshwater fish of Australia
• Freshwater fish of New Zealand