Oxleyan Pygmy Perch

Oxleyan Pygmy Perch (Nannoperca oxleyana) are an endangered small freshwater fish found only in the coastal region of northern NSW to south-eastern Queensland.

Oxleyan Pygmy Perch (OPP) mostly occur in swamps, creeks and lakes of coastal ‘wallum’ (Banksia-dominated coastal heath). Due to various natural events, including drought, bushfire and flooding, OPP's have disappeared from some locations leaving the remaining populations small and fragmented. This project’s primary aim is to support the recovery of Oxleyan Pygmy Perch from flood and other natural disaster impacts and improve their resilience to future events.

The project will survey OPP habitats to quantify flood impacts, identify required impact mitigation strategies, and create a self-sustaining population of genetically diverse Oxleyan Pygmy Perch at Grafton DPIRD - Fisheries Centre. The initiative aims to establish a continuous stocking campaign for OPP to support species recovery and maintenance across NSW.