Neoceratodus forsteri

The Australian Lungfish grows to a length of 5 feet, and can weigh more than 20 pounds. It has large scales and lobed, paired fins fringed with rays retaining the primitive characteristic of being more numerous than the supporting bones. The dorsal, caudal and anal fins are confluent (run together). It is the most primitive of all lungfish. It has only one lung, and possesses functional gills. While the African lungfish can live for up to 4 years out of water, the Australian variety can exist for only a short time in atmospheric air. The gills are normally used for respiration, but atmospheric air can be breathed in adverse conditions. The teeth consist of a pair of sharp plates in each jaw which work in a shearing action.