The Arafura File Snake lives in coastal wetlands in northern Australia.

It is a large (length of 1.6 metres), water living snake with a small head and loose skin. The upper surface is grey to dark brown marked with pale blotches. Thje scales are small and keeled, resembling the teeth of a file. The tail is prehensile.

This snake can move on land but seldom leaves the water. It spends the day in shaded water and hunts at night. It anchors itself by the tail then ambushes passing fish. It lacks venom so holds its prey with the help of its rough scales and long, curved teeth. It can breathe through its skin as well as through its lungs.

Several males court a female who later produces up to 27 young.

File snakes are harmless to humans. They are a traditional food of the Aboriginal people of Northern Australia.