TORRENTFISH (Cheimarrichthys
fosteri)
Synonymy: Papanoko
The
torrentfish is a flattened fish, with four distinctive diagonal
stripes. The torrentfish’s body shape and fin configuration
allow it to adhere to a surface with more pressure when water
velocity increases (much like a Formula 1 racecar presses down
harder on the ground the faster it goes).
| This
is how the torrentfish can maintain its position in the
rapids, in contrast with the bluegill bully who has to exploit
eddies and backcurrents around rocks and stones to avoid
being swept away. |
 |
The torrentfish is commonly found in large braided rivers, with
females found in the upper reaches and males in the lower reaches.
A spawning migration therefore takes place and the larvae are
swept out to sea, to return as 16-20mm long juveniles. Torrentfish
feed on small freshwater invertebrates such as midge and caddis
larvae.
Did you know?
The torrentfish actually belongs to the same Family as a well
known New Zealand marine species, the blue cod.
