WHITEBAIT
Whitebait is a term used to describe the larvae of freshwater fish swept out to sea and returned to waterways as juveniles. New Zealand Whitebait comprise of five species, Banded, Shortjaw and Giant Kōkopu, Inanga and Koaro. Whitebait are translucent in appearance and are around 4-5 cm long.
SHORTJAW KŌKOPU
Shortjaw kōkopu are shy and hard to
find, favouring bouldery forest steams.
Endemic to New Zealand, their status
is threatened, at risk from the degradation
of their natural environment.
Status: Threatened – nationally vulnerable
LINKS:
Niwa webpage on the Shortjaw Kōkpou
INANGA
Inanga is native to and widely distributed around New Zealand.
Unlike the Kōaro, they are poor climbers who restrict
their locations to low-lying streams, lakes and wetlands.
They are small and short-lived to one year.
The only migratory Galaxiid species where the adults swim in shoals.
Status: at risk - declining
LINKS:
KŌARO
Kōaro are excellent climbers and can negotiate
near vertical waterfalls. They can penetrate further
inland than any of the other whitebait species.
They can live for 15 years or more. Wide distribution
in North and South Islands in fast-flowing cool forest streams.
Status: at risk – declining
LINKS:
GIANT KŌKOPU
Giant kōkopu are endemic
to New Zealand. The largest
of the whitebait species, reaching a size
up to 500 mm. Nocturnal, favourite habitat under
overhanging vegetation where bugs and insects may fall.
Status: at risk - declining
LINKS:
Niwa - Video on tagging Giant Kōkopu
BANDED KŌKOPU
Banded kōkopu are good climbers dwelling in
pools with overhanging foliage waiting for insects to drop from
the branches. Endemic to New Zealand.
LINKS:
Waikato regional council - PDF