The Ichthyology collection is primarily used for research focused on the taxonomy and phylogeography of various fish groups from the Australian region.
This research is being conducted by researchers from the South Australian Museum and from other Australian and overseas institutions.
South Australian Museum Honorary Research Associate Dr Michael Hammer has led an to a comprehensive review of freshwater fish specimens in the South Australian Museum's collection to link with various projects, such as the South Australian State Vertebrate List and the State Action Plan for Freshwater Fishes. This involved examination of specimens and accompanying data to verify identifications and provide accurate documentation for faunal mapping and referencing.