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Mogurnda adspersa, commonly known as the Southern Purple Spotted Gudgeon, is a small, freshwater fish native to Australia. It is characterized by its robust body, distinctive coloration, and territorial behavior. This species is highly regarded in the aquarium trade for its attractive appearance and interesting behaviors, though it requires specific care to thrive. In its natural habitat, it plays a role as a small predator, contributing to the ecological balance of its freshwater ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- Variable, typically a mottled brown to olive-green base color with numerous iridescent purple, blue, or reddish spots and blotches across the body and fins. Males often display more intense coloration, especially during breeding. The belly is usually lighter.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Robust, somewhat compressed body, Large head with a relatively large mouth, Two distinct dorsal fins, Prominent, often iridescent, purple or blue spots on body and fins
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins; the first is spiny, the second is soft-rayed and longer. They are typically separated or narrowly joined.
- Tail fin
- Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Large, rounded pectoral fins.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are thoracic, located beneath the pectoral fins, and are often fused or closely set.
Identification Tips
Coloration and Spotting
Look for the distinctive purple, blue, or reddish spots on a mottled brown/olive background. The intensity of these spots is a key identifier.
Body Shape
Its robust, somewhat stocky body and large head are characteristic.
Dorsal Fins
The presence of two distinct dorsal fins, with the first being spiny, helps differentiate it from some other small native fish.
Mouth Size
A relatively large mouth indicates its predatory nature.
Habitat
- Water type
- freshwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow waters, often less than 2 meters.
- Environment
- Inhabits slow-flowing to still waters of rivers, creeks, billabongs, and swamps. Prefers areas with abundant aquatic vegetation, submerged logs, root masses, and rocky substrates for shelter and foraging. Tolerant of a range of water conditions but thrives in clear, well-oxygenated water.
- Geographic range
- Historically widespread across the Murray-Darling Basin in southeastern Australia, including parts of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. However, its range has significantly contracted due to habitat degradation and introduced species.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 75 liters (20 gallons) for a single specimen, larger for groups or breeding pairs
- Temperature: 18-26°C (64-79°F)
- pH level: 6.5-7.8
- Hardness: 5-20 dGH
- Compatibility: Best kept with similarly sized, robust fish that can tolerate its territorial nature. Avoid very small or delicate species. Can be kept in species-specific tanks or with other Australian natives like some rainbowfish or larger gudgeons.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots (caves, driftwood, rocks) to establish territories. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential. Live or frozen foods are preferred for optimal health and coloration. Can be sensitive to poor water quality.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: vulnerable
- Seasonality: Breeding typically occurs during warmer months, often after rainfall events, but can be opportunistic.
- Market price: Moderate, varies by region and availability
- Commercial importance: medium
- Taste: Not typically consumed due to small size and conservation status.
- Texture: Not typically consumed.
- Nutritional value: Not typically consumed.
Key Facts
Territorial Naturebehavior
Southern Purple Spotted Gudgeons are known for their territorial behavior, especially males, which will defend their chosen breeding or resting sites vigorously.
Parental Carebehavior
Males exhibit strong parental care, guarding the eggs laid by the female, often on a hard surface like a rock or log, until they hatch.
Habitat Lossinteresting
Once widespread, the species has suffered significant population declines and range contraction due to habitat degradation, altered flow regimes, and competition/predation from introduced species like Common Carp and Gambusia.
Aquarium Appealinteresting
Despite its vulnerable status in the wild, it is a popular and attractive species in the aquarium hobby, contributing to ex-situ conservation efforts.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions beyond general care for live fish. Avoid excessive stress during capture or transfer. They can nip if handled carelessly, but are not dangerous.
Similar Species
Northern Purple Spotted Gudgeon
Mogurnda mogurnda
While very similar in appearance and often confused, M. mogurnda generally has a more northern distribution (northern Queensland, Northern Territory, New Guinea) and subtle differences in fin ray counts and genetic markers. M. adspersa typically has a more pronounced 'hump' behind the head in larger individuals.
Empire Gudgeon
Hypseleotris compressa
Empire Gudgeons are generally more slender, have a more pointed snout, and their spots are typically less defined and more scattered, often appearing as small flecks rather than distinct 'purple spots'. Their coloration is also often more silvery or yellowish.
Flathead Gudgeon
Philypnodon grandiceps
Flathead Gudgeons have a distinctly flattened head profile and a more elongated, cylindrical body. Their coloration is typically drabber, lacking the vibrant purple spots of M. adspersa.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Gobiiformes
- Family
- Eleotridae
- Genus
- Mogurnda
- Species
- Mogurnda adspersa
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