The family of missing Tasmanian man Rye Hunt say they are "disgusted" members of the Brazilian media have sent them pictures of a body discovered near Rio de Janeiro to ask for confirmation if it is Mr Hunt.

Australian authorities have told the family a body has been discovered in Marica, about 25km from Rio. The body appears to have been in the water.

There is no confirmation the body is that of Mr Hunt.

He was captured on CCTV footage shortly before he disappeared. (9NEWS)

Rye Hunt was on a backpacking trip when he went missing. (9NEWS)

"We are disgusted that photos of the body have been published by media outlets and sent directly via text to family members by Brazilian journalists, asking us to confirm the identity," the family said in a statement.

"It goes without saying that this crosses many professional and personal boundaries.

"The family ask for privacy and respect at this difficult time."

Mr Hunt with his girlfriend, Bonnie Cuthbert. (9NEWS)

The body is still being recovered by Brazilian authorities and DNA testing will be carried out to verify the identity of the body.

Mr Hunt has been missing since May 21 when he separated from his travelling companion Mitchell Sheppard following an argument after the two had taken what is suspected to be a highly potent hallucinogen known as NBOMe.

Mr Hunt has been missing since May 21. (9NEWS)