sensitive to olfaction; it is likely these short-finned eels were attracted to the swamp waters in which they were detected. Although no fish were collected from the swamp itself, neither electric fishing nor spotlighting are ideal methods for sampling such waters. No fish traps were available, but it seems likely that short-finned eels would be found in the swamp, although probably in low numbers due to the difficulties of access and because there is limited suitable fish habitat within the swamp area.

There was a far greater variety of fish species recorded in the lower river (site 4). Eight species of fish and two large invertebrates were detected. Only a single adult (350mm) brown trout (Salmo trutta) was recorded. These have been recorded before in low numbers by previous surveys, from Fish & Game information and by the applicant. Longfinned eels were again abundant, as were redfin bullies (Gobiomorphus huttoni). The absence of red fin bullies in otherwise suitable habitat in the upper river can almost certainly be explained by the presence of the steep gorge between the two sites, as redfin bullies can only climb to a limited extent.

Torrentfish (Cheimarrichthys forsteri) is an unusual native fish species, adapted to living in fast flowing water. Small numbers were only found in some rapids in the lower river.

(1). All three shortfinned eels were recorded in water emerging from the swamp area
* Also recorded by the author during a 1993 electric fishing survey
# Also recorded by a 1999 short jaw kokopu spotlight and electric fishing survey by the Department of Conservation
@ Reported by Department of Conservation staff

Fish & Game New Zealand Nelson Marlborough Region Sports Fish and Game Bird Management ...p8