Wildlife

World’s largest invertebrate
The world’s largest freshwater invertebrate, the Giant Freshwater Crayfish (Astacopsis gouldii) is unique to Tasmania.  Ranging from a deep navy shade to startling bright blue, and sometimes growing up to a metre in length, this strange-looking creature is one of Tasmania’s most intriguing.
The omnivorous crayfish (or lobster) is found in the dark, cool, languid rivers and streams of the north and north-west of Tasmania, where it feeds on rotting wood and animal flesh, as well as leaves and insects that fall into the water.

Powerful pincers
Slow moving and secretive, the crayfish are rarely seen. Males have a harem of several females, and can be aggressive towards one another. Crayfish live for up to 40 years, and can weigh up to 5 kilograms, though such large specimens are now rarely found. The powerful pincers of fully-grown crayfish are reportedly powerful enough to sever a man’s arm.

Protected species
Giant crayfish are highly palatable, and were a food source for Tasmanian Aborigines. Since European habitation, crayfish numbers are thought to have declined rapidly and they were listed as vulnerable in 1995. It’s now illegal to catch Astacopsis gouldii without a permit, an offence which carries a fine of $10,000.

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