Giant bully


The giant bully, tītarakura, or tīpokopoko, is a species of fish in the family Eleotridae endemic to New Zealand.

Description

This is the largest species of bully and it can reach more than in length, but most are. Adults are generally found near the coast in freshwater, tidal or estuarine habitats. The breeding behavior is poorly known, but the species is considered diadromous and it is suspected that the larvae spend time in the sea.
It is very similar to the common bully, but it has six dorsal spines, where the common bully usually has seven.

Distribution and habitat

The species is endemic to New Zealand, where it is widespread throughout the country in the coastal lower ends of rivers and estuarine habitats.

Conservation status

Under the New [Zealand Threat Classification System], this species is listed as "Naturally Uncommon" with the qualifiers of "Data Poor" and "Range Restricted".