Tasmanian Giant Freshwater Lobster is the largest freshwater invertebrate in the world. They used to grow up to 80 cm (31 in) in the past with over 5 kilograms (11 lb) of weight, but now one can seldom met an individual bigger than 2 kilograms (4.4 lb).
The lobsters live in the North of Tasmania, in the calm and cool rivers with crystal-clear water rich in oxygen. Their colour depends on the water they live in, varying from brown and greenish to pure blue.
Tasmanian Giant Lobsters mature extremely slowly and may live for forty years. They start reproducing very late – at 9 and 14 years for males and females respectively. Male lobsters hold a harem of several females, which breed once in a year or two.
Presently the lobsters have lost many of their habitats due to the excessive fishing and agricultural pollution brought by humans. Since the year 2000 Tasmanian Giant Lobsters belong to the endangered species, and Australian Government protects them by imposing a fine of $10000 per individual lobster on those engaged in illegal lobster catch.
