WetlandInfo—your first-stop-shop for wetland management resources in Queensland

Wonderful wetlands

Wetlands are important for our environment, economy and our livelihoods. They have many functions from reducing floods to producing clean water and food for humans, industry and agriculture. They provide important habitat for many animals and plants. Wetlands are the great ‘connectors’ across our landscape providing places for our enjoyment and relaxation. Regardless of whether you are doing a school or uni assignment, managing a wetland or undertaking research, you will find a wealth of information here on WetlandInfo. Read more…

WetlandInfo feature species

Blue Spiny Crayfish (Euastacus sulcatus).

Photo by Harry Hines.

Our September feature species is the Blue Spiny Crayfish. The colour of the Blue Spiny Crayfish varies depending on its location, e.g. Lamington and Springbrook crayfish are vibrant blue or blue-green contrasting with white; northern NSW animals are red and white; western populations are green-brown with less contrast.

They are restricted to freshwater streams bordered by rainforest and sometimes wet eucalypt forest at more than 300 m altitude. They forage on detritus and water weeds and are often found walking on rainforest tracks after rain. When encountered, they can be very aggressive, waving their claws and hissing audibly, however they are not dangerous, unless you put your fingers in the way.

Additional information

• Species profile
• Atlas of Living Australia.