Banded Grunter, Amniataba percoides (Günther, 1864)
Introduction
Banded grunter are widespread in northern Australia where they are an important part of the native fish fauna. However, they have little value as either a sport or table fish and are considered a pest species outside their natural range.
Identification
The Banded Grunter has five to eight black bars on the side of the body. The caudal fin has a dusky lower margin and spots centrally.
Habitat
They frequent weedy banks and shallow backwaters
Distribution
The Banded Grunter occurs in most major river systems of northern Australia from the Ashburton River in central Western Australia to the Burnett River in Queensland. It is also recorded from the Georgina and Finke Rivers in central Australia.
The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Click on the map for detailed information. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.
Feeding and diet
Dietary items include insects, crustaceans and algae.
Further reading
- Allen, G.R. 1989. Freshwater Fishes of Australia. T.F.H. Publications. Pp. 240.
- Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. & M. Allen. 2002. Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Australia. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 394.
- Merrick, J.R. & G.E. Schmida. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes. Biology and Management. John R. Merrick. Pp. 409.