Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfish (Gadopsis marmoratus) is a freshwater fish of the family Percichthyidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Southeastern Australia, in the Murray-Darling basin and coastal rivers of Victoria.
Description
The river blackfish is a freshwater fish of the family Percichthyidae from southeastern Australia, including the Murray-Darling basin and coastal rivers of Victoria. The species reaches about 60 cm and has an elongate, dark mottled body with pelvic fins modified into long free rays. It lives in clear, flowing streams with abundant cover and a gravel bottom, but also in lakes and reservoirs; it tolerates slightly brackish water. The species is strongly site-attached and stays within a stretch of a few tens of metres. The diet consists of aquatic insect larvae, crustaceans and small fishes. It is a valued angling fish locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfish?
The Blackfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Site-attached bottom-dweller of streams with plenty of cover; tolerates slightly brackish water.
Where does the Blackfish live?
The Blackfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern Australia, in the Murray-Darling basin and coastal rivers of Victoria.
How big does the Blackfish get?
The Blackfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Blackfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackfish edible?
Yes, the Blackfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gadopsis
More from the family Percichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.