Lake Eacham Rainbow Fish, Melanotaenia eachamensis

Problem:
The Lake Eacham Rainbow Fish had disappeared from Lake Eacham by 1985.  Its disappearance has been attributed to the predatory and competitive effects of four introduced native fish species – the Mouth Almighty (in particular), the Archerfish, the Banded Grunter and the Bony Bream.  All were introduced into Lake Eacham between 1983 and 1987.

Background Information:
Early research by the Queensland Museum and the Department of Primary Industries drew attention to the extinction in Lake Eacham.  Recent biochemical research by the University of Queensland has re-established the fact that this fish is a distinct species.  Recent studies by the University have located the species in nearby Lake Euramoo, Dirran Creek and the upper reaches of the South Johnson River.

Solution:
Educate the public about the risks of moving fish from one area to another (translocation).  Continue maintaining captive breeding populations.  Manage recently discovered populations.

The next species is the Honey Blue-eye