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Southern Saratoga

Southern Saratoga

Scleropages leichardti

Quick Facts

Scientific name Scleropages leichardti

Other names Spotted Saratoga, Burramundi, Dawson River Salmon, Saratoga, Spotted Barramundi

Size Up to 1 m (3.28 ft)

Weight Up to 4 kg (8.81 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Freshwater habitats including slow moving streams & billabongs often near areas of vegetation

Depth Range 0 - 10 m (33 ft)

Interesting Info

The southern saratoga is a freshwater fish species that is native to northern Australia, particularly the Gulf of Carpentaria and the northern parts of Queensland.
They have a long, slender body shape and are covered in large, shiny scales that are often greenish-brown in colour.
The Southern Saratoga is a predatory fish that feeds on insects, crustaceans, small fish, and other aquatic animals.
Southern Saratoga are sexually dimorphic, with males having a more elongated dorsal fin and a more pointed anal fin.
During breeding season, males will build nests in shallow water and court females by swimming around them and flashing their fins.
Females can lay up to 1000 eggs, which are fertilised externally by the male. The eggs hatch in about 48 hours, and the young fish are guarded by the male until they are old enough to fend for themselves.
The Southern Saratoga is prized by recreational anglers for its large size and challenging fight. They are also sometimes kept in home aquariums, although they require large tanks and specialised care.
These fish are known to be long-lived, with individuals living up to 20 years in the wild.

Species Interaction

Aquarium & Recreational Fishing

Southern Saratoga are a prized catch for recreational anglers due to their challenging fight and tasty flesh. However, they are protected in some areas, so it’s important to follow local regulations and catch-and-release practices to ensure their sustainability. They are also a popular aquarium fish as they are large, aggressive and visually impressive in aquariums. They do require specialised care, so they are best suited for experienced fish keepers.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Osteoglossiformes

Family: Osteoglossidae

Genus: Scleropages

Species: Scleropages leichardti

Conservation Status

Southern Saratoga fish are listed as a “Vulnerable” species by the Australian government’s Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.