Olive Perchlet Refuge Ponds
395
native species planted
Removed
all woody weeds from Delroy
and Egret Ponds.
300
non-native carp and
80kg of rubbished removed
Building fish habitat
Once common throughout the Murray Darling Basin, the Olive Perchlet has declined significantly and is now a threatened species in New South Wales. The Olive Perchlet is found in billabongs and sluggish reaches of streams with abundant aquatic vegetation, but owing to the introduction of the common carp, river regulation, and the destruction and decline of billabong habitats, the Olive Perchlet is now found in only a handful of places in NSW. A captive population has been established at the Nerrandera fish hatchery, and DPI Fisheries aims to set up at least four “refuge” populations with permanent water in the vicinity of Dubbo. Two stormwater retention ponds, and a pond at the Dubbo golf course have suitable water conditions, but habitat improvements are necessary before the Olive Perchlet can be established in these areas.
Community engagement
Planting native trees and aquatic plants, removing woody weeds, and clearing rubbish are crucial steps in restoring and maintaining healthy ecosystems. In addition to these efforts, the River Repair Bus participated in reconnaissance missions to identify additional ponds suitable for introducing native species. Collaborating with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries, OzFishers have also rigged a large seine net, which will be instrumental in the future removal of pest species, further supporting the restoration of aquatic habitats.
