I'm not sure how "long a bow" we are going to draw on this list as to what the cut-off point is for inclusion. As interesting as Handfish are I am not aware of them ever being found in anything even remotely resembling freshwater.
According to my "Coastal Fishes of Tasmania and Bass Strait"
the Spotted Handfish was the most common and widespread species in the group (perhaps 6 species in Australian waters, 2 mainland) and is the only shallow water inhabitant. Apparently they are relatives of the Anglerfish, carry a small lure on their forehe
ad, feed on inverts and stay a small size(10-12 cm). They certainly look attractive and should be a nice aquarium subject.
Obviously local aquarists in Tasmania, especially those with some expertise in marine systems should offer their services to CSIRO to help. The last thing the Handfish needs is dozens of well-meaning but inept fish enthusiasts charging around the last few
remaining populations doing more harm than good.
Perhaps each of us could write, as concerned individuals, to the Minister and request he direct resources towards a thorough survey for the species to ascertain the extent of the problem. It sounds a bit like the Eachamensis scenario doesn't it?
Perhaps this is a suitable subject for posting to the Aquatic Conservation Networks' List at acn-l at pinetree.pinetree.org
Bruce Hansen
ANGFA
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From: cyrus roussilhes[SMTP:cyrus at ois.com.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 12 June 1996 22:46
To: rainbowfish at pcug.org.au
Subject: Handfish in Derwent Estuary in Tasmania faces extinction
Handfish in Derwent Estuary in Tasmania faces extinction
Source: #48 Helix? Magazine June/July '96 p8
I have paraphrased a short article even through you can say this is
plagerism the content was too important to risk being changed. btw the
picture shows a beautiful fish potential for aquariums.
Last Stand of the Handfish
has pear-shaped fish
once common in Derwent Estuary in Tasmania
Spotted Handfish (Brachionichthys hirsutus)
population has colapsed
listed as endangered
Barry Bruce, CSIRO biologist division of Fisheries says its becoming the
fist known species of marine fish to have died in recorded history
Named after strange hand-like fins, the Spotted Handfish grows to ~10cm
cream coloured with yellow and black spots
lives by walking along the bottom of Derwent Estuary
Only four confirmed sightings in past five years
Jon Bryan, marine biologist, working with Tasmanian Conservation Trust
beleived fish was victim of recent introduction of North Pacific Seastar
introduced by ballast water of trade ships in mid-1980s
seastar has eaten out many local shellfish pop. and the eggs of these Handfish
Jon's calling for a recovery program
may be too late already