Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigmouth galaxias (Galaxias platei) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Galaxiidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Description
The bigmouth galaxias is a galaxiid (Galaxiidae) from cold, clear lakes and rivers of Patagonia in southern South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate, scaleless, olive-brown body with far-set dorsal and anal fins and a broad mouth. As an omnivore it lives both in open water and near the bottom and eats insect larvae, small crustaceans and small fish. It is one of the few native freshwater fish of the region. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigmouth galaxias?
The Bigmouth galaxias has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Bigmouth galaxias live?
The Bigmouth galaxias lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Argentina, Chile, Falkland Is.
How big does the Bigmouth galaxias get?
The Bigmouth galaxias grows to a maximum of about 31 cm.
Is the Bigmouth galaxias dangerous to humans?
No, the Bigmouth galaxias is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Galaxias
More from the family Galaxiidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigmouth galaxias?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigmouth galaxias is one of 12,519 species in the app.