Australian Lungfish

The Australian lungfish is often called a “living fossil” due to its ancient lineage, which dates back over 100 million years. Fossils show that lungfish have existed since the time of the dinosaurs, and the modern species has changed very little over that time.

This species is found only in south-eastern Queensland, Australia, in slow-moving rivers. It prefers deep pools with lots of aquatic vegetation and submerged logs for shelter.

One of its most fascinating features is its ability to breathe air. While the lungfish usually relies on gills like other fish, it also has a single, functional lung and can gulp air at the surface, especially in low-oxygen environments. This unique ability helps it survive in warm or stagnant waters where other fish might not.

Lungfish grow slowly and can live well over 50 years in the wild, and over 100 years in captivity.

They are solitary animals that feed on a diet of molluscs, crustaceans, insects, and plant matter, using strong tooth plates to crush hard-shelled prey.

While not currently endangered, the Australian lungfish faces threats from habitat alteration, dam construction, and water quality changes. As a result, it is a protected species in Australia, with restrictions on collection and handling.