Australia is home to more than 140 species of native crayfish, and this month, Australia Post is shining a light on some of those striking creatures, with the release of three new stamps.
Speaking on the release, Australia Post Philatelic Manager Michael Zsolt said it was one that would appeal to the general public and collectors alike.
“Australian rivers, creeks and wetlands host a great variety of freshwater crayfish. The crayfish featured on each stamp represents this remarkable diversity – in appearance, species and geographic location.”
Designed by Roger Swainston, author and illustrator of Fishes of Australia, the definitive guide to Australia’s marine and freshwater fishes, the three domestic base-rate ($1) stamps feature:
$1 Smooth Marron Cherax cainii
Growing to around 1.5 kilograms, the Smooth Marron (Cherax cainii) is common in rivers and dams in southwest Western Australia. A popular delicacy, the species is commercially farmed and is not threatened. Usually black to brown in colour there is also a rare, naturally occurring bright cobalt blue variation, which is often farmed for aquarium display.
$1 Giant Freshwater Lobster Astacopsis gouldi
The Giant Freshwater Lobster (Astacopsis gouldi) is an endangered species found only in northern Tasmania below 400 metres and is the largest in the world. This imposing crayfish varies in colour from brown to blue green, can live up to 60 years and weighs up to six kilograms.
$1 Lamington Spiny Crayfish Euastacus sulcatus
The colourful Lamington Spiny Crayfish (Euastacus sulcatus) is typically bright blue with white highlights and red connective tissue. Classified as vulnerable, the species is found in streams in the highland rainforests of south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales and individuals weigh arounds 500 grams.
Other products associated with this issue include a first day cover, stamp pack, set of maxicards, and medallion cover. The stamps and associated products are available at participating Post Offices, via mail order on 1800 331 794 and online at auspost.com.au/stamps, from Tuesday 2 July 2019 while stocks last.
