Distribution Widespread from the Fitzroy River in Queensland North throughout Cape York, the Gulf of Carpentaria and West to the Ord River system. Also recorded in both Northern and Southern New Guinea. Reproduction Spawning occurs between October and February. Female lays a roundish egg sheet, of up to 70,000 adhesive eggs. This is frequently on the underside of an overhanging rock ledge, under roots or on the roof of a hollow submerged log, usually in a shady location. The straw coloured eggs, which look like shiny velvet, are guarded and aerated by the male until after the eggs hatch in 5 to 7 days. Diet A sluggish bottom dwelling carnivore, feeds on other fish, insects and crustaceans.