Author: (Castelnau, 1861)
FBname: Cape Galaxias
Remark: The high level of genetic divergence between most of the populations in South Africa suggests that it may represent a species complex rather than a single species (Ref. 32965, 93589). There is an urgent need for detailed morphological diagnostic studies, and the determination of the ecological requirements and conservation status of each of the cryptic forms of this species (Ref. 93589).
Comments: May penetrate some distance inland and is widespread in lakes and rivers (Ref. 3563), which may be either acid (pH 5-6,5) or alkaline (pH 8-9) (Ref. 93592, 93822). Prefers gentle currents within shelter of banks near the head of pools (Ref. 3563, 52193). Small but extremely hardy, they are known to tolerate a wide range of water and temperature conditions (Ref. 5214, 6164, 52193, 93591, 93592). Feeds on small drifting invertebrates (Ref. 7248, 52193). Spawning period occurs in spring up to middle of summer (Ref. 5214, 33843, 52193), depending on the conditions (Ref. 52193). Ripe eggs are demersal, relatively large and numbering about 30-40 (Ref. 93592). Their small size and cryptic color enable them to avoid predators (Ref. 52193).