Story: Life in fresh water
Known as kōura, these small freshwater crayfish (Paranephrops planifrons) are found in the North Island and the north-west South Island. A second species (Paranephrops zealandicus) occurs in the south-east of the South Island, and Stewart Island. Māori considered them a delicacy. Living in lakes and streams, kōura are nocturnal, omnivorous scavengers. They are typically 80–120 millimetres long.
About this item
Department of Conservation
Reference: 10045580
Photograph by J. L. Kendrick
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