Drysdale Grunter

Eggs are guarded and fanned by the male parent (Ref. 205).

Inhabits larger streams rather than small tributaries, forming schools in rock pools and over sand bottoms. Feeds on filamentous algae by grazing on rocks. (Ref. 2906 & 5259)

Adults inhabit larger streams rather than small tributaries, forming schools in rock pools and over sand bottoms (Ref. 2906, 5259, 44894). They retreat to crevices when threatened (Ref. 44894). Feed on filamentous algae by grazing on rocks. (Ref. 2906, 5259, 44894). Sometimes form mixed shoals with S. trigonicus. Breed during the late dry or early wet season (October to December) (Ref. 44894). Eggs are guarded and fanned by the male parent (Ref. 205). Aquarium conditions: pH=7.5, H=12, 26°C, egg layer, peaceful community fish, plant and rock cover (Ref. 6398).

fisheries: of no interest; aquarium: commercial

The Drysdale grunter (Syncomistes rastellus) is a species of fish in the family Terapontidae. It is endemic to Australia, where it occurs in the Gibb and Drysdale Rivers, coastal rivers in northern Western Australia. It is a herbivorous species which grazes on filamentous algae and prefers the main river channels rather than the tributaries, it also prefers flowing water of varying turbidity and substrate.