Other names: Queensland lungfish, Burnett salmon, Barramunda
The Australian lungfish, Neoceratodus forsteri, is a primitive freshwater fish native to the rivers of southeastern Queensland, Australia. Notable for its ability to breathe air, this species has a long, slender body covered in large, bony scales. It inhabits still or slow-flowing waters and is protected due to its ancient lineage and ecological importance.
Other names
Queensland lungfish, Burnett salmon, Barramunda
Length
~100" (max 150)
Weight
~20" (max 43)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
15-25° F
Depth
3-10 ft
Protecting
Australian lungfish inhabit mud, sand, or gravel bottoms in slow-moving rivers and deep pools
They prefer still or sluggish waters, often found in sheltered areas
Their diet includes aquatic plants, crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish
They use electroreceptors to locate prey hidden in the sediment
Spawning occurs from August to October in shallow waters with dense vegetation
Eggs are attached to aquatic plants, resembling small, transparent grapes
Juveniles remain in shallow areas, gradually moving to deeper waters as they grow
Adults exhibit site fidelity, returning to the same areas annually for spawning
