Large-scale variation in life history traits of the widespread diadromous fish, Galaxias maculatus, reflects geographic differences in local environmental conditions

Abstract

Applying uniform population models and management strategies to widespread species can be ineffective if populations exhibit variable life histories in response to local conditions. Galaxias maculatus, one of the world's most widely distributed fish species, occurs in a broad range of habitats and is highly adaptable, making it an ideal species for examining variation in life history traits across large geographic scales. Here, we examine the spawning biology and early life history of diadromous G. maculatus in coastal rivers in Victoria, Australia, and compare them to other populations throughout its range. We predicted that traits associated with these critical life stages, especially thos..