The Shortfin Eel, Southern Shortfin Eel, Australian Shortfinned Eel, Freshwater Eel, River Eel, Short-fin Eel, Shortfinned Eel, Short-finned Eel, Silver Eel, Yellow Eel, scientifically known as Anguilla australis, is a fascinating and widespread species of eel. This fish is known for its elongated body, sharp teeth, and remarkable life cycle. It is a common sight in various aquatic environments across its range, often inhabiting rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters.
Description & Characteristics
Anguilla australis boasts a serpentine body with a distinctive short dorsal fin that extends almost to the tail. This eel can reach a maximum size of 130.0 cm, although individuals typically average around 60-80 cm in length. Their color varies depending on age and habitat, ranging from yellowish-brown to silver or even a mottled green. Like many eels, Anguilla australis possesses a pair of nostrils and small, pointed eyes, giving it an almost reptilian appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
Anguilla australis is remarkably adaptable, thriving in a diverse range of aquatic environments. It can be found in both freshwater and saltwater, inhabiting rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters. Its depth range spans from the surface to depths of 3,000 meters, making it a versatile inhabitant of both shallow and deep water environments. Anguilla australis is commonly found in coastal regions, estuaries, and freshwater systems, making it a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. Its distribution spans across a broad geographical area, encompassing coastal regions of Australia and parts of New Zealand, where it plays a vital role in the food web.
Taxonomy
The species Anguilla australis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Anguilliformes, and Family: Anguillidae. It is classified as a true eel, belonging to the same family as other well-known eel species like the European Eel (Anguilla anguilla) and the American Eel (Anguilla rostrata).
Feeding
Anguilla australis is a carnivorous predator with a varied diet. Its feeding habits are opportunistic, consuming a range of prey items depending on availability and habitat. These include algae, amphipods, crustaceans, fish (little fishes), insects, invertebrates, isopods, shrimps, worms, zoobenthos, and zooplankton. Their sharp teeth and powerful jaws are well-suited for grasping and consuming their prey.
Image References