Cape galaxias (Galaxias zebratus)

Scientific name: Galaxias zebratus Castelnau, 1861

The Cape galaxias (Galaxias zebratus) is a freshwater fish of the family Galaxiidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 18–24°C (64–75°F). Native range: Africa, Cape coastal streams and rivers from the Keurbooms (south coast) to the Clanwilliam Olifants system (west coast), South Africa.

Cape galaxias care at a glance

Temperature: 18–24°C (64–75°F)

Biology

Occur mostly in coastal and lowland areas but may penetrate some distance inland; widespread in lakes and rivers. Prefer gentle currents within shelter of banks near the head of pools. Small but extremely hardy, they are known to tolerate a wide range of water and temperature conditions. Their small size and cryptic color enable them to avoid predators. Feed on small drifting invertebrates. Spawning period occurs in spring up to middle of summer.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Galaxias zebratus
Family: Galaxiidae (Galaxiids)
Order: Osmeriformes (Smelts)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 7.5
Environment: Freshwater; benthopelagic
Climate: Subtropical
Distribution: Africa: Cape coastal streams and rivers from the Keurbooms (south coast) to the Clanwilliam Olifants system (west coast), South Africa.
Conservation status (IUCN): Data deficient (DD)
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: of no interest; aquarium: commercial
Resilience: Low, minimum population doubling time 4.5 - 14 years (Fec