Mary River Cod

About Mary River Cod

The Mary River Cod (Maccullochella mariensis) is one of Australia’s most endangered freshwater fish species and a cornerstone of our conservation efforts. At HinterNoosa Hatchery, we are committed to developing and refining captive breeding programs to restore the genetic diversity and population levels of this vital species, which was once considered to have fewer than 600 individuals left in the wild. Through our refined breeding techniques and stocking efforts over the past 30 years, the Mary River Cod is making a remarkable comeback.

Our hatchery is one of only two that has access to the purest genetic lines, sourcing brood stock directly from the Mary River Catchment, including isolated populations found in the Tinana and Coondoo catchments. The recovery of the Mary River Cod is not just about numbers; it’s about reintroducing this apex predator into depleted ecosystems to restore balance and combat the pressures from invasive species and habitat degradation.

Certifications

HinterNoosa Hatchery is fully certified to breed Mary River Cod, meeting the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Our certifications include:

Australian Government - Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Approved Aquaculture Program

Recognized by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, this certification ensures that our aquaculture operations meet the highest environmental and ethical standards.

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Australian Government - Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

International Wildlife Trade Operation Approval

This certification allows us to engage in the export of our species under the strict regulations governing international wildlife trade, ensuring that our practices support global conservation efforts.

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Australian Owned Certification

As a proudly Australian-owned business, this certification underscores our commitment to supporting local industries and maintaining the highest standards in all aspects of our operations.

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Ornamental Fish International (OFI) Gold Member

As members of OFI, the peak international trade association for the ornamental fish industry, we join a network of ethical and reputable breeders worldwide.

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CITES logo

CITES

The Australian Lungfish is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. HinterNoosa Hatchery meet all requirements to allow the export of Australian Lungfish to our trusted international wholesale partners.

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Australian Government - Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Approved Aquaculture Program

Recognized by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, this certification ensures that our aquaculture operations meet the highest environmental and ethical standards.

Learn More
Australian Government - Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

International Wildlife Trade Operation Approval

This certification allows us to engage in the export of our species under the strict regulations governing international wildlife trade, ensuring that our practices support global conservation efforts.

Learn More
Australian Owned logo

Australian Owned Certification

As a proudly Australian-owned business, this certification underscores our commitment to supporting local industries and maintaining the highest standards in all aspects of our operations.

Learn More
GOLD MEMBER - Ornamental Fish International

Ornamental Fish International (OFI) Gold Member

As members of OFI, the peak international trade association for the ornamental fish industry, we join a network of ethical and reputable breeders worldwide.

Learn More
CITES logo

CITES

The Australian Lungfish is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. HinterNoosa Hatchery meet all requirements to allow the export of Australian Lungfish to our trusted international wholesale partners.

Learn More

Mary River Cod Recovery Program

At HinterNoosa Hatchery, we are deeply committed to the conservation and recovery of the Mary River Cod, one of Australia’s most endangered freshwater species.

As a proud participant in the Mary River Cod Recovery Program, we actively contribute to efforts aimed at restoring this apex predator to its natural habitats. This program, coordinated by the Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee, focuses on reintroducing Mary River Cod into depleted ecosystems where they play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

Through our partnership, we supply fingerlings to various initiatives, including the repopulation of the Brisbane, Bremer, and Albert/Logan River systems, where the cod species have become extinct. By working closely with government agencies, local communities, and research institutions, we ensure that our efforts not only support the recovery of this critical species but also help restore the health of entire ecosystems.

Gallery

Discover the Mary River Cod through our exclusive gallery. Each image highlights the distinct features and stages of development of this critical species, reflecting the care and expertise that go into our breeding programs.

Close-up of a largemouth bass swimming underwater. The fish has a greenish-brown body with dark mottled patterns and a large mouth. Its dorsal fin is spiky and raised. The background shows blurry rocks and branches, giving a natural aquatic habitat appearance.A person crouches by a clear, shallow stream in a forest, holding a net in the water. They wear a yellow and dark green outfit and brown boots. The stream reflects surrounding trees and a clear sky. Lush greenery and rocks are along the stream’s banks, creating a serene natural setting.A large fish with a patterned, mottled gray body swims near the bottom of a freshwater environment. It has a broad head and prominent dorsal fins. Underwater plants and rocks are visible in the background, with a textured sandy substrate beneath the fish.A serene stream flows through a lush forest. The water is calm, reflecting the overhanging trees and greenery. Dense foliage lines the banks, with a mix of tall trees and bushes. The scene is peaceful and verdant, suggesting a fresh, rain-soaked environment.Close-up of a large fish with a dark, speckled body, swimming underwater. Its eye is prominent, and its mouth slightly open. The background is blurry with greenish water and faint outlines of rocks and plants, suggesting a natural aquatic habitat.Small fish swim in clear water against a white background. The fish are sparsely scattered, with most grouped in the upper left corner. They have elongated bodies and visible eyes, appearing slightly translucent with a subtle orange tint.A hand holding a white bottle with a red cap, dispensing a drop into a test tube containing a brown liquid. Another capped test tube with a clear liquid is next to it on the table. Blurred background with various bottles suggests a laboratory setting.A large cluster of small, light brown spiders tightly grouped on a beige surface. They have long, thin legs and are densely packed, forming an irregular, fluffy mass. The light background highlights the intricate details of the spiders' arrangement and individual appearance.A close-up of a fish being held partially submerged in water by a person's arm. The fish has a sleek body with a dark, speckled pattern on its bluish-grey scales. Sunlight reflects off the water's surface, creating bright spots, and the surrounding water has a reddish-brown tint.

Find Out More

Looking to purchase Mary River Cod or need more information? Contact us today to discuss your requirements. Our team is ready to assist with your inquiries and provide detailed information about our products.

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