Always Be Naturing
Torrentfish from the Ashley River/Rakahuri River, North Canterbury

Torrentfish/panoko

Introduction

Torrentfish are the most common fish in braided rivers, living in fast-flowing stretches of open rivers.

New Zealand status: Native
Conservation status: Declining
International conservation status: Decreasing (IUCN)
Found in: New Zealand’s North and South Islands, except for Fiordland. Uncommon in Otago and Southland.
Threats: Habitat disturbance and modification

Appearance and size

Torrentfish (Cheimarrichthys fosteri) grow up to 200 mm in length and have distinct broad stripes along the sides of their bodies. Juveniles look the same as adult fish, just smaller. They have flat heads and large pectoral fins that help to anchor the fish on a riverbed and counter strong currents. Their raised eyes and low mouths are likely to be adaptations for feeding in river habitats.

Torrentfish are the only freshwater member of the Cheimarrichthyidae family in New Zealand, and are closely related to blue cod.

Where they live

Torrentfish are common in open rivers, living in fast-flowing rapids of stony rivers and streams. They are unable to climb steep sections of river or waterfalls, and only reach inland areas where the rivers are gently sloping. Female fish tend to be found the furthest inland. Males stay nearer the coast.

Lifecycle

Torrentfish move between freshwater and the ocean during their lifecycle in the same way as the migratory galaxiids.

whitebait-lifecycle-820.jpg
Inanga lifecycle
Image: DOC