Fish
Fifty-three species of freshwater fish have been recorded in Kakadu's waterways; eight of them have a restricted distribution. In the Magela Creek system alone, 32 species have been found. In comparison, the Murray-Darling river system, the most extensive in Australia, supports only 27 native fish species.
Some species, such as the primitive archer fish, the sooty grunter, or black bream, and the toothless catfish, live mainly in clear water near the escarpment. In the billabongs and creeks, some of the more common fish are barramundi, freshwater long-toms, salmon-tailed catfish, chequered rainbow fish, and the saratoga. The last two also appear in waters near the escarpment.
Although introduced fish have been found in most Australian waterways, none have been recorded in the park.
Recreational fishing (with lures) is permitted in waters west of the Kakadu Highway except in the West Alligator River System. To provide refuge areas, fishing is not permitted in waters east of the Kakadu Highway except at the camping areas of Muirella Park (Djarradjin and Sandy Billabongs) and Jim Jim Billabong. Cast nets, traps, spear guns and crab pots are not permitted but can be left at the Bowali Visitor Centre during your stay. Bag limits apply to barramundi and other species. Contact the Bowali Visitor Centre, telephone (08) 8938 1120 for up-to-date information.
Common or notable fish species
- Archer fish Toxotes chatareus Njarlgan
- Barramundi Lates calcarifer Na-marnkol
- Long Tom Strongylura kreffti Burdukkulung
- Saratoga Scleropages jardini Guluibirr
- Sooty Grunter/Black Bream Hephaestus fuliginosus Galarrk