Panulirus argus
31cm
0-90m
12 sites
Palinuridae
Keep your eyes peeled for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster, a real underwater treat for divers and snorkelers! These magnificent crustaceans, typically around 30cm but sometimes reaching almost half a meter, add a splash of color and intrigue to Caribbean reefs. You'll usually find them nestled amongst the coral, hiding in crevices, or foraging on the seabed, generally in depths up to 30m, but they can be found deeper. These lobsters are most active at night, so night dives are your best bet for spotting them on the move. While they lack the large claws of their northern cousins, their impressive antennae and spiny carapace are a sight to behold. Keep an eye out in the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific, and South Atlantic – you won't be disappointed!
Easily distinguished by their lack of large front claws, Caribbean Spiny Lobsters boast a robust, spiny carapace covered in forward-pointing spines. Look for their distinctive mottled brown, tan, and yellowish coloration. Their exceptionally long, prominent antennae, often longer than their body, are a key identifier. They move with a deliberate, almost regal gait, and are often seen retreating backwards into crevices when disturbed.
910 sites
