Image: taken at Oakland’s Wetlands – L to R Sylvia Zukowski from Nature Glenelg Trust, Mayor of Marion Kris Hanna and Glynn Rickett from City of Marion
In a feat of conservation and ecological restoration, the critically endangered southern purple-spotted gudgeon is making a return to the River Torrens/ Karrawirra Pari. This event is a strong indicator of the improved health of the river and marks the end of a century-long absence for these remarkable fish.
The southern purple-spotted gudgeon, a species that had vanished from the river system for over a hundred years, is now being reintroduced to the Breakout Creek, also known as Purruna Pari section of the River Torrens.
This section has undergone a gradual transformation from an artificial channel to a more natural waterway, making it an ideal habitat for the gudgeon’s return.
“A revamped section of Breakout Creek / Purruna Pari will provide a home to this gudgeon and play a key role in boosting the resilience of the species as a whole,” Deputy Premier Susan Close says.
This reintroduction initiative is the result of a collaborative partnership between Green Adelaide, the Nature Glenelg Trust, and the City of Marion.
It signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing recovery of the River Torrens, which has now reached a level of health that can effectively support this endangered species.
The journey to bring back the southern purple-spotted gudgeon began with an introduction to Oaklands Wetland several years ago. The success of this translocation effort played a pivotal role in facilitating breeding and population growth, making it possible for these remarkable fish to return to their native habitat in the River Torrens.
“The fish have enjoyed the Marion Council area so much, they have been breeding like crazy,” Kris Hanna Mayor of Marion says.
“There are enough now to share with River Torrens, but I hope plenty will stay with us.”
The southern purple-spotted gudgeon was declared regionally extinct in South Australia during the early 1990s. The revival of this species at Oaklands Wetland has been a beacon of hope for conservationists and an inspiration for future endeavours to restore endangered species.
This significant release into the River Torrens follows a successful translocation to the wetlands in 2021, underscoring the commitment of all involved parties to protect and restore South Australia’s unique biodiversity.
For those interested in learning more about urban rewilding projects and conservation efforts, please visit the Green Adelaide website.
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