rate over this period. As their wetland habitat dries out, the water may become stagnant and low in oxygen. When the dissolved oxygen saturation of the water reaches 15–30% Canterbury mudfish begin 'air-breathing', in which they take a bubble of air into the mouth and absorb oxygen from it. While doing this they cease gill ventilation, suggesting that the oxygen is being absorbed directly into their oral tissues rather than being used to oxygenate water flowing over the gills. During this time the mudfish stay very quiet, either hanging at the surface or burrowing into the substrate. Some choose to leave the water when it becomes low in oxygen, and remove themselves again if put back into the water. When the water dries out completely, Canterbury mudfish continue extracting oxygen from mouthfuls of air as well as absorbing it through their skin. Although their metabolism slows down, they remain active, frequently changing position, rolling onto their backs and grouping together. Maintaining awareness of their surroundings, rather than going into a deep torpor like many hibernating animals, allows them to respond to their changing habitat and move to damper places. Life cycle Canterbury mudfish spawn in late winter and spring. The small eggs are scattered amongst dense aquatic vegetation near the surface of the water. They can delay spawning if suitable water quality of submerged vegetation is not present. The 5–7 mm fry hatch two to three weeks later. They are initially active during the day in open water, then around 35–50 mm they adopt adult habits and become nocturnal and spending much of their time hidden. They grow quickly in their first year, typically reaching 75-80mm but growth slows after this. Sexual maturity is reached in their first year and females spawn once per year, producing 500–10,000 eggs. Conservation status In 2014 the New Zealand Department of Conservation classified the Canterbury mudfish as "At Risk: Nationally Critical" with the qualifier C - predicted decline >70% over ten years. Also in 2014 the IUCN rated the Canterbury mudfish as "Critically endangered". The Canterbury mudfish is range restricted and sparse, and its preservation is dependent on conservation efforts. Water abstraction, intensification of agriculture and changes in irrigation systems are main causes of their decline. Conservation efforts A release of Canterbury mudfish has been carried out in a protected wetland near Willowby, south of Ashburton, New Zealand, where it is hoped they will