Mudminnow captive breeding program

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The small relative of the pike was long thought to be extinct in Austria - until ecologists rediscovered it by chance in 1992. Since then, great efforts have been made to ensure the long-term survival of this inhabitant of the Danube floodplains.

A small fish with great abilities. With a maximum body length of 13 cm, this brown-green species is one of the more inconspicuous fish. However, the mudminnow has a very special ability: It can also breathe air via its swim bladder and thus temporarily survive in waters with low oxygen levels and muddy shore zones.

Extinct, recovered, protected. The European mudminnow was once widespread in the Danube east of Vienna and the surrounding backwaters. As a result of the regulation of the Danube and the draining of wetlands, populations continued to decline almost unnoticed. In 1975, the mudminnow was considered extinct in Austria. However, 17 years later, ecologists discovered an isolated population of around 6,000 animals in the Fadenbach between Eckartsau and Orth. This marked the beginning of large-scale conservation measures by the Donau-Auen National Park, which are also supported by Schönbrunn Zoo.

Habitat restored. The Fadenbach stream was revitalized to allow it to spread naturally again. Retreat pools were created that provide sufficient habitats even at low water levels and do not freeze over completely in winter. In addition, silted-up and interrupted watercourses were uncovered and reconnected in order to enable the exchange between the habitats. Nevertheless, the situation remains critical, as floodplain landscapes can change rapidly over the course of the year. Low water levels, drying out and freezing remain a constant danger.

Schönbrunn as survival support. Schönbrunn Zoo received mudminnows from the Donau-Auen National Park a few years ago and breeds them. We also provide specimens to pond owners, who are willing to introduce the mudminnow as their only fish species. This creates small, self-sustaining populations. These so-called backup populations provide a reserve in case the mudminnows do not make it in the wild.