Kingdom Animalia Genus Craterocephalus Phylum Chordata Rank Species | Family Atherinidae Scientific name Craterocephalus amniculus Higher classification Craterocephalus Order Atheriniformes | |
Similar Craterocephalus, Murray hardyhead, Atheriniformes | ||
The Darling River hardyhead (Craterocephalus amniculus) is a species of fish in the Atherinidae family endemic to Australia. The species name amniculus is from the Latin meaning a small creek or stream, in reference to the habitat where these fish are often found.
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Craterocephalus amniculus is recorded to be vulnerable to becoming an endangered species because of its restricted range, but the threats and information regarding this recording have not been verified or documented.
Habitat
The Darling River hardyhead can be found in a freshwater environment within a benthopelagic range. They are native to a subtropical climate. The average length of an unsexed male is about 5.5 cm or 2.2 in. This species can be located in New South Wales, Australia. It populates itself in clear, steady, and slow water. They are recorded to be found in streams, creeks, and rivers at the surface of the water or in the shallow areas. They are occasionally found among plants and vegetation in the water, as well. It is common to find this species isolated or within groups of 10-15 fish.
Description
The Darling River hardyhead is identified by its compressed body, small mouth, and thin lips. The eyes of this species are large and silvery. They have short dorsal fins along with a forked tail. Its small scales rarely show up on the head. The back of the species is gold with a silver body. Also, a dark line runs across its side.
Breeding and spawning occurs in the middle of summer.