Author: (Steindachner, 1883)
FBname: Lake Eyre hardyhead
Comments: Inhabits swamps, ponds, lakes, rivers, streams and lagoons.  Common throughout its range, usually among weeds and over gravel beds in lakes or slow-flowing sections of streams.  Occurs in both turbid and clear water:  0-110ppt, 10°-37°C.  Also found in ephemeral rivers, streams, natural springs, salt lakes and man-made bores, usually around submerged vegetation over gravel substrates.  Seeks refuge in bores and semi-permanent waterholes during droughts.  Feeds on microcrustaceans.  Breeds from January to March, and also opportunistically during floods.  Important in the diet of many waterbirds including herons, cormorants and pelicans (Ref. 44894).