First observations on the timing and location of giant kōkopu (Galaxias argenteus) spawning

摘要: The giant kōkopu, Galaxias argenteus (Gmelin, 1789), is the largest of galaxiid species and endemic to New Zealand. While it was first be described, knowledge its ecology remains relatively poor, particularly with respect reproductive phase life-cycle. This article describes observations kōkopu spawning sites in natural environment. A total nine have been discovered across two seasons an urban stream Hamilton, Giant are confirmed follow a similar strategy other whitebait species. Eggs deposited riparian habitats while temporarily submerged by elevated water levels. then develop terrestrially before hatching when egg deposition re-inundated during later high flows. leaves highly susceptible flow regime alterations.