Daily Ageing and Population Dynamics of Gambusia holbrooki in Arid-Zone Spring Ecosystems: Consequences for Management and Control

Roja Ramany Sundaramoorthy; Pippa Kern; Kwan Tzu; Dean M. Gilligan; Jawahar G. Patil

doi:10.3390/fishes11060354

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Daily Ageing and Population Dynamics of Gambusia holbrooki in Arid-Zone Spring Ecosystems: Consequences for Management and Control

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Daily Ageing and Population Dynamics of Gambusia holbrooki in Arid-Zone Spring Ecosystems: Consequences for Management and Control

Roja Ramany Sundaramoorthy, Pippa Kern, Kwan Tzu, Dean M. Gilligan and Jawahar G. Patil

Fishes, Vol.11(6), 354

2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes11060354

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Abstract

Fisheries

Life Sciences & Biomedicine

Marine & Freshwater Biology

Science & Technology

This study investigates the population dynamics and seasonal reproductive patterns of Gambusia holbrooki, an invasive fish threatening biodiversity within arid springs of the Edgbaston Spring complex in Queensland, Australia. Using daily aging techniques, we uncover critical life history traits that inform targeted species management. Our findings reveal marked sex-specific mortality rates, with males exhibiting higher mortality than females, a pattern consistent with findings from Tasmania. Reproductive activity peaks were observed between September and November, but persisted throughout the year, excluding January and April of 2020, likely due to elevated water temperatures during these months. Growth modeling identified the power function as the best fit for describing G. holbrooki growth trajectories. These insights highlight the importance of seasonally informed control strategies to mitigate the ecological impact of this pest species. The study provides essential data to support conservation efforts and guide effective management of invasive fish in fragile arid spring ecosystems.

Details

Title: Daily Ageing and Population Dynamics of Gambusia holbrooki in Arid-Zone Spring Ecosystems: Consequences for Management and Control
Authors/Creators: Roja Ramany Sundaramoorthy - University of Tasmania
Pippa Kern - Australian Wildlife Conservancy
Kwan Tzu - University of Tasmania
Dean M. Gilligan - Bush Heritage Australia
Jawahar G. Patil - Inland Fisheries Service
Publication Details: Fishes, Vol.11(6), 354
Publisher: MDPI
Number of pages: 16
Grant note: Bush Heritage Australia
Identifiers: 991005903578607891
Murdoch Affiliation: Harry Butler Institute
Language: English
Resource Type: Journal article

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