The Lake Eacham rainbowfish was originally known from Lake Eacham, an isolated crater lake in the Atherton Tablelands. The species became extinct in Lake Eacham by 1987 due to illegal translocations of several larger and predatory native fish. The species was then feared extinct until subsequent research revealed that the Lake Eacham rainbowfish had a wider distribution and still survived in the wild. The Lake Eacham rainbowfish shows a preference for clear, shallow water of streams with a slow to moderate flow and altitudes of around 700m.

Threats

Pure Lake Eacham rainbowfish populations are predator-naive and are extremely susceptible to translocated predatory fish. Unauthorised translocations of native fish have likely been occurring in the Wet Tropics region for 50 years or more, and further illegal translocations are considered a major potential threat to the Lake Eacham rainbowfish. Habitat degradation through siltation from grazing and sugar cane farming, and smothering
of riparian zones by para grass are also potential threats to the species.

Quollity Conservation Hub's Vulnerability Score:

32

To help compare the relative vulnerability of different species, we have developed a scoring system based on biological and ecological characteristics that influence a species' ability to survive and recover from environmental change and natural disasters.

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The framework is adapted from assessment methods used by conservation experts following the Black Summer bushfires to help identify species most in need of conservation action, research, and recovery funding.

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Each species is assessed using a range of factors, including its conservation status, lifespan, reproductive rate, habitat and dietary requirements, ability to disperse or recover after fire, and the number and severity of threats it faces.

In general, the higher a species' score, the greater its overall vulnerability and risk of decline or extinction.

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Like all conservation assessments, this scoring system is limited by the information currently available. Many threatened species remain poorly studied and receive limited research funding, meaning some assessments rely on the best available scientific knowledge or information from closely related species. As new research becomes available, scores may be updated to reflect our improved understanding.