This study estimates growth parameters, length-frequency growth performance index, longevity, and total mortality of the oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense, from Anzali lagoon, Iran. The von Bertalanffy growth parameters were, L∞ = 8.65 cm, K = 0.82 yr^-1, and t₀ = -0.146 yr^-1. The growth performance index, Ф', was 1.78. Total mortality, Z, from the linearised length-converted catch curve was 4.89 yr^-1. Natural mortality M calculated from Pauly's empirical formula was 2.1 yr^-1, and fishing mortality F calculated from Z - M was 2.74 yr^-1. The exploitation ratio E calculated from F/Z was 0.57. The longevity was about 3 yrs. Length-frequency showed no significant difference between the two sexes (p>0.05). According to the results of this study, it seems that the Anzali lagoon has a suitable environment for the life and growth of M. nipponense.