Lekutu Goby (Redigobius lekutu) is a goby, belonging to the family Gobiidae.

Description

Redigobius lekutu is a goby, belonging to the family Gobiidae. Members of this family are generally small fishes, and this species is no exception. It measures only 3.5 cm from the snout to the tip of the tail – probably smaller than the index finger of the average adult. This species is new to science and its formal description was completed and published in 2010 by goby specialist Helen Larson

Habitat Ecology and Behaviour

This species has been observed in mid-water schooling, only in clear headwater areas. This fish is carnivorous and feeds on benthic invertebrates. There is evidence of parental care of demersal eggs. There has been no detailed ecological study conducted on this species, only general observations.

Threats

The main threat to this endemic fish is habitat destruction brought about by the logging activities being carried out in its only known sites; and the possibility of introduced invasive species, such as Tilapia sp (malea) encroaching the headwaters. Excessive gravel and boulder removal are also direct threats. The restricted distribution of this species to two sites on Vanua Levu makes this species very vulnerable, and could affect their future survival. Introduced and invasive fish are capable of out competing or preying on these endemic fishes. The lack of information available on this species means that we do not know how well this species will be able to cope with the threats which have been identified.

Conservation Status

There is no legislation to protect this species or other freshwater fish. Jenkins (2003) makes recommendations that the Upper Lekutu be part of aForest Reserve Network in their bid to include priority conservation areas for Fiji’s freshwater biodiversity.

Freshwater researcher, Aaron Jenkins of Wetlands International, says that this species, if it was to be included in the IUCN Redlist of Threatened Species, would be listed as Critically Endangered. A team of researchers is currently attempting to include this species in the IUCN Redlist. Wetlands International is currently working with the upper Dreketi landowners to establish a headwater reserve area.

Remarks and Cultural Significance

There is no legislation to protect this species or other freshwater fish. Jenkins (2003) makes recommendations that the Upper Lekutu be part of aForest Reserve Network in their bid to include priority conservation areas for Fiji’s freshwater biodiversity.

Freshwater researcher, Aaron Jenkins of Wetlands International, says that this species, if it was to be included in the IUCN Redlist of Threatened Species, would be listed as Critically Endangered. A team of researchers is currently attempting to include this species in the IUCN Redlist. Wetlands International is currently working with the upper Dreketi landowners to establish a headwater reserve area.

References

Boseto (2006);
Jenkins (2003);
Jenkins (personal communication);
Seeto (personal communication).

Front Page Photo: Aaron Jenkins