Wetland survey finds 'amazing' diversity

CRAWLIES: Freshwater crayfish or koura found in Carter Reserve during a fish survey.

Giant koura (freshwater crayfish), bullies, long and shortfin eel, brown mudfish, and banded and giant kokopu are some of the fish that have been found living in what one freshwater ecologist has described as "the most special" place in Wairarapa, in terms of diversity of rare fish species.

Ecologist Amber McEwan conducted the first thorough qualitative survey to be held at Carter Scenic Reserve at four different spots on three occasions, using a combination of spotlighting and nets.

The survey had found "pretty good" numbers of fish, proving the reserve's value as a wetland, Ms McEwan said.

"We know it's a special place and we found a special fish community."

High numbers of regionally threatened banded kokopu and one "really rare" giant kokopu, a species which has the same conservation status as little spotted kiwi, were found, she said.

Another survey, focusing on mudfish, will soon be done to give a "robust picture of what is currently being supported by the reserve", Ms McEwan said.

Due to issues with the Ruamahanga catchment, fish like these were unlikely to be seen in other places in such numbers, she said. "It's so valuable. It's ecologically significant. It's amazing for such as small area - it's got a really high diversity of fish."

"It is the most special one [in Wairarapa] I can think of in terms of diversity and coverage of rare species."

Data would be used to provide DoC with a baseline for future monitoring and research, she said.