Metadata

Oxyeleotris caeca

Allen 1996

ORDERSUB-ORDERFAMILY
GobiiformesGobioideiButidae

Synonyms

None.

Country

PNG

Types

Known only from one specimen, the holotype: WAM P. 31011-001, female, 107.0mm SL.

Distribution

Known only from the type locality: a small stream near Kafa, a tributary of the Mubi River, Upper Kikori River System, Papua New Guinea (c. 6o34.5’S, 143o29.5’E). This steam originates from a cave 100m upstream of where the fish was collected. The whole area has a well developed karst topography with many caves. Allen (1996) records that these fishes are often caught in surface streams during the wet season when water levels are high. Given its stygomorphic facies there is no reason to suppose that it is not a true hypogean fish.

Habitat

There are no published details of the true hypogean habitat.

Systematics

Most closely related to Oxyeleotris fimbriata, one of the most widespread gudgeons in Papua New Guinea.

Conservation Status

TLO [NE]

Since this animal is known from only one site it is at least VU D2.

Museum Holdings

As above only.

Key References

Allen, G. R. Journal Article 1996 Oxyeleotris caeca, a new species of blind cave fish (Eleotridae) from Papua New Guinea