Australian Lungfish
About Australian Lungfish
The Australian Lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri) is more than just a species—it is a link to evolutionary history, spanning over 380 million years and remaining unchanged for over 100 million years. HinterNoosa Hatchery is the largest producer of Australian Lungfish. We are also the only facility in Australia with an Approved Aquaculture Program for both the Australian Lungfish and Mary River Cod, giving us a unique standing in the industry.
Each year, we offer a limited number of these extraordinary fish to select ornamental fish wholesalers who meet our standards of quality and exclusivity. By collaborating with only one wholesaler per country, we create secure, long-term partnerships based on trust and exceptional quality. Through our pioneering breeding techniques, we have helped reduce illegal harvesting pressures, ensuring that Australian Lungfish can only be sourced from Approved Aquaculture Programs like ours, offering further assurance to our partners.
At HinterNoosa Hatchery, excellence in breeding and conservation is our priority. As a Gold Member of Ornamental Fish International (OFI), we are part of the leading international trade association representing the ornamental fish industry. In addition, we collaborate with research institutions such as Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, The University of Queensland, and the University of Tokyo to remain at the forefront of aquaculture science and sustainability.
Certifications
Hinternoosa Hatchery holds all the necessary certifications for the breeding and export of Australian Lungfish, ensuring that our operations meet and exceed industry standards. These include:

Approved Aquaculture Program
Recognized by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, this certification ensures that our aquaculture operations meet the highest environmental and ethical standards.

International Wildlife Trade Operation Approval
This certification allows us to engage in the export of our species under the strict regulations governing international wildlife trade, ensuring that our practices support global conservation efforts.
Australian Owned Certification
As a proudly Australian-owned business, this certification underscores our commitment to supporting local industries and maintaining the highest standards in all aspects of our operations.
Ornamental Fish International (OFI) Gold Member
As members of OFI, the peak international trade association for the ornamental fish industry, we join a network of ethical and reputable breeders worldwide.

CITES
The Australian Lungfish is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. HinterNoosa Hatchery meet all requirements to allow the export of Australian Lungfish to our trusted international wholesale partners.

Approved Aquaculture Program
Recognized by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water, this certification ensures that our aquaculture operations meet the highest environmental and ethical standards.

International Wildlife Trade Operation Approval
This certification allows us to engage in the export of our species under the strict regulations governing international wildlife trade, ensuring that our practices support global conservation efforts.

Australian Owned Certification
As a proudly Australian-owned business, this certification underscores our commitment to supporting local industries and maintaining the highest standards in all aspects of our operations.

Ornamental Fish International (OFI) Gold Member
As members of OFI, the peak international trade association for the ornamental fish industry, we join a network of ethical and reputable breeders worldwide.

CITES
The Australian Lungfish is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. HinterNoosa Hatchery meet all requirements to allow the export of Australian Lungfish to our trusted international wholesale partners.
Collaborations & Research
We actively collaborate with leading research institutions both nationally and internationally to enhance our knowledge and refine our practices. Our partners include renowned institutions such as Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, The University of Queensland, and the University of Tokyo. These collaborations not only help us stay at the forefront of aquaculture science but also ensure that our practices contribute to global efforts in conservation and sustainability.
Below are some of the esteemed institutions we have worked with and hosted at our facility:





Gallery
Explore the beauty and uniqueness of the Australian Lungfish through our curated gallery. Each image captures the distinct characteristics and stages of growth of this remarkable species, showcasing the care and attention we invest in our breeding programs.









Find Out More
Interested in learning more about our Australian Lungfish or placing an order? Contact us today to discuss how we can meet your specific needs. Our team is here to provide detailed information and assist with your inquiries.