The Black banded gudgeon (Oxyeleotris selheimi) is a freshwater fish of the family Eleotridae that grows up to 55 cm.
Description
The giant gudgeon is a large sleeper goby from northern Australia, ranging from the Adcock in Western Australia to near Cooktown in Queensland. The species grows to about 55 cm and has a stocky body that is dark brown above and lighter below, with a series of close-set, narrow dark longitudinal stripes; juveniles are greyish-white with a white stripe. It lives in rivers, creeks and billabongs in quiet or slow-flowing water among vegetation, log debris and under undercut banks. As a nocturnal predator it hunts fish, crustaceans and aquatic insects, and can breathe air. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black banded gudgeon?
The Black banded gudgeon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Black banded gudgeon live?
The Black banded gudgeon lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Black banded gudgeon get?
The Black banded gudgeon grows to a maximum of about 55 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Black banded gudgeon dangerous to humans?
No, the Black banded gudgeon is harmless to humans.
Is the Black banded gudgeon edible?
The Black banded gudgeon is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oxyeleotris
More from the family Eleotridae
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