The largest freshwater invertebrate in the world

Name: Codi
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Coast to Cradle Wild Country

The Tasmanian giant freshwater crayfish is the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world. It is found only in Tasmania, in cool, clean rivers and streams in the north and north-west of the state.

These crayfish can grow to a very large size, with some reaching more than 5 kilograms. They have strong claws and a dark brown or black shell, which helps them blend into their surroundings. Despite their size, they can be difficult to spot because they spend much of their time hiding among rocks, logs and plants.

"They grow to a maximum of 6 kilo. I’ve seen them at 4 kilo. The claws can wrap around your calf. The big ones will break your arm. They’re the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world and they’re only found in that top coastal strip of northern Tasmania", says Giant Freshwater Crayfish expert Todd Walsh.

Tilde Bergstrom 2026 04 28 1648 — Todd Walsh holding a Giant Freshwater Crayfish

Giant freshwater crayfish are slow-growing and can live for many years.

They feed on things such as decaying plants, small animals and other organic material found in the water. They play an important role in keeping their freshwater environments healthy.

The species is threatened by habitat loss, pollution and being caught illegally. Their numbers have declined in some areas, so protecting the clean rivers and streams where they live is very important.

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The Giant Freshwater Crayfish exists in the Coast to Cradle Wild Country. A working group is bringing together a community-led vision for the Coast to Cradle Wild Country, and are inviting the community to drive and shape this vision so it captures their dreams for the future of this very special place.

Have your say by filling out the community survey: https://kuno.earth/articles/community-survey-coast-to-cradle

The Tasmanian giant freshwater crayfish is the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world. It is found only in Tasmania, in cool, clean rivers and streams in the north and north-west of the state.

"They grow to a maximum of 6 kilo. I’ve seen them at 4 kilo. The claws can wrap around your calf. The big ones will break your arm. They’re the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world and they’re only found in that top coastal strip of northern Tasmania", says Giant Freshwater Crayfish expert Todd Walsh.

Giant freshwater crayfish are slow-growing and can live for many years.

They feed on things such as decaying plants, small animals and other organic material found in the water. They play an important role in keeping their freshwater environments healthy.