Stocky galaxias captive breeding program

The Stocky Galaxias is considered to be one of Australia’s most threatened freshwater fishes and at risk of extinction in the next 20 years. A captive breeding program is being undertaken at CSU to help save the species.

The challenge

The Stocky Galaxias (Galaxias tantangara) is a critically endangered fish found only in two locations within Kosciusko National Park, NSW. This small fish faces numerous threats, including predation and competition from introduced Trout, natural disturbances like storms and bushfires, feral horses, and climate change. These threats, combined with its limited and fragmented distribution, put the Stocky Galaxias at risk of extinction within the next 20 years. To combat this, establishing additional populations through reintroductions is crucial. Captive breeding programs play an essential role in this strategy, helping to increase population numbers and support the creation of new, stable populations in the wild.

Project Name Stocky Galaxias Captive Breeding Program

Funding NSW DPI  $648,000

Our response

In the wake of the devastating 2019/2020 bushfires, we established a captive rescue population of Stocky Galaxias at the Fish Lab, Gulbai Institute, Charles Sturt University. Our primary goal is to develop effective captive breeding techniques for this critically endangered species. By doing so, we aim to produce enough captively bred fish to support the establishment of new populations in the wild. The fish are housed in a biosecure, temperature-controlled facility where we can replicate alpine temperatures and light conditions throughout the year. This controlled environment is crucial for the successful breeding of the species.

The goal

In 2022/23, we achieved a significant milestone by successfully breeding Stocky Galaxias in captivity for the first time. Our efforts are ongoing as we continue to refine our captive breeding methods. Additionally, we are investigating the species' temperature tolerances and dietary and nutritional requirements. This research is crucial for informing our ongoing captive breeding program and determining the best locations for establishing new populations in the wild. Our ultimate goal is to contribute to the long-term survival and recovery of the Stocky Galaxias.

Our team

Principal scientist

Our partners

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