Cairns Rainbowfish

Occurs in small rainforest creeks usually in hilly terrain with alternating sections of rapids and rocky pools varying in depth from several centimeters to one to three meters. Bottom composed of boulders, cobbles and gravel with minimal plant growth. In spite of the limited distribution its future seems secure as long as the rainforest habitat of the Bellenden Ker Range is protected. Much of this area lies within a national park (Ref. 44894).

The Cairns rainbowfish (Cairnsichthys rhombosomoides) is a species of rainbowfish endemic to Australia. This species is endemic to the wet tropics of north eastern Queensland from the Daintree River and Cape Tribulation in the north south to Innisfail where its occurs in shallow, fast flowing, shady streams over sandy substrates where the roots of trees, woody debris, leaf litter, undercut banks and hydrophytes provide cover.