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Murray River Cod and Similar Species

Maccullochella peelii

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Several fish can be confused with Murray River Cod. Here are the key differences.

Species often confused with {name}

Trout Cod

Maccullochella macquariensis

Key differences: Trout Cod have a more pointed head, a straighter dorsal profile, and a distinct 'hump' behind the head. Their coloration is typically grey-blue to grey-green with smaller, more distinct spots, often forming a 'leopard spot' pattern, and they have a shorter mouth that does not extend past the eye. They also have a more pronounced overbite.

Eastern Freshwater Cod

Maccullochella ikei

Key differences: Eastern Freshwater Cod are generally darker, often black or dark brown with very distinct, large black spots. They have a more elongated body shape and a slightly smaller head relative to body size compared to Murray Cod. Their geographic range is also distinct, being restricted to coastal drainages east of the Great Dividing Range.

Mary River Cod

Maccullochella mariensis

Key differences: Mary River Cod have a more elongated body and a distinct pattern of large, irregular black spots or blotches on a pale background. Their head is also relatively smaller and more pointed than the Murray Cod. They are restricted to the Mary River system in Queensland.

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