11004-05318 Gollum galaxias (Galaxias gollumoides) one of 12 species of non-migratory endemic galaxiids from southern New Zealand. They are classified Nationally vulnerable, occupying an area of 40.8 hectares. Gollumoides can be found in a wide range of habitats from lowland wetlands near sea level to small headwater streams in high country tussocklands up to 1100 m above sea level. They are distributed throughout Southland with population strongholds present in the Mataura, Oreti, Waiau, Aparima, Catlins and Owaka rivers. Incredibly, some populations can even be found on Stewart Island/Rakiura, and are thought to have been distributed there during the Pleistocene ice age when a land-bridge was present. Allen Creek, Kingston *
DSC_6331 Nevis galaxias (Galaxias 'nevis') one of 12 recognised taxonomically indeterminate species of non-migratory endemic galaxiids, with this being, quite possibly, the oldest 'roundhead' species. They are classified Nationally endangered, occupying an area of only 4.7 hectares. The Nevis is an unusual region which escaped glaciation, resulting in an ancient flora and fauna. This very large individual is from the tannin-stained waters above the gorge on the lower Nevis River, where it joins the Kawarau River *
DSC_6334 Nevis galaxias (Galaxias 'nevis') one of 12 recognised taxonomically indeterminate species of non-migratory endemic galaxiids, with this being, quite possibly, the oldest 'roundhead' species. They are classified Nationally endangered, occupying an area of only 4.7 hectares. The Nevis is an unusual region which escaped glaciation, resulting in an ancient flora and fauna. This very large individual is from the tannin-stained waters above the gorge on the lower Nevis River, where it joins the Kawarau River *