NZ Freshwater Fish Database
Science Centres: Environmental Information, Freshwater and Estuaries
Welcome to the New Zealand Freshwater Fish Database (NZFFD). It contains over 30,000 records of the occurance of freshwater fish throughout New Zealand and its main offshore islands. Its initial aim was to establish the geographic distributions of species and to assist research. It is now also used for water management, fisheries management, the conservation of fish biodiversity and as a teaching resource. The database is designated as 'nationally significant' and is managed by NIWA.
Data stored include the location of sample sites, the fish species present, as well as information on their abundance and size, sampling methods and a physical description of each site. Data are recorded on formatted cards in the field and then submitted to a database manager for quality control. They are contributed voluntarily by staff from NIWA, the Department of Conservation, Regional Councils, environmental consultants, Universities, Fish and Game Councils, other Crown Research Institutes, schools and members of the public.
This information is freely available to the public, but you do need to register. The user guide provides a step-by-step approach to accessing the data and using the Fish Assistant software.
- Search the NZFFD and create a file to download
- View the contents of a record card
- Get a blank data form for field use
- Download the NZFFD Assistant software
- User guide
- Download the catchment number directory
- Register
- Contact the database manager
This database also includes a Fish Atlas and a Species Identification Guide. The Atlas contains an overview of the fish fauna of New Zealand and fact sheets on each species, including distribution maps. The Identification Guide provides a range of taxonomic keys and field guides for identifying the species (and some life stages) both in the field and in the laboratory.
