Species · GBIF taxon 4648497
Murray Crayfish
Euastacus armatusAlso known as Murray River Crayfish, Murray Cray, Spiny Freshwater Cray, Lobster
Murray crayfish are massive freshwater crustaceans distinguished by their dark green to black carapace and striking white claws. They inhabit flowing, well-oxygenated river systems where they excavate deep burrows along clay banks. These slow-growing giants can take up to a decade to reach maturity, making them highly vulnerable to environmental changes and historical overfishing.
AquaticEndemicArmored
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Aquatic Plants
- Fallen Leaves
- Macroinvertebrates
Predators
- Water Rats
- Murray Cod
- Cormorants
ThreatsOverfishing, habitat loss, river regulation, cold water pollution, and climate change.
HabitatsFlowing rivers, creeks, and upland streams with clay banks and abundant snags.
Life spanUp to 25 to 30 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyParastacidae
- SpeciesEuastacus armatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Equipped with powerful claws that can deliver a painful crush; handle only when necessary.
- What to notice
- Look for a large, dark green body with prominent white spines on the claws and abdomen.
- Support conservation
- Check local fisheries guidelines before visiting, and never disturb their clay bank burrows.
Responsible observation
- Observe from above: Watch for them in shallow, clear water near submerged logs during the day.
- Respect local regulations: Strictly follow seasonal closures and size limits if handling is permitted.
- Minimize handling: Avoid picking them up to prevent stress and potential injury to both parties.
Frequent Companion (c) anonymous, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Competitor (c) Peter Crowcroft, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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