Jasus spp.
40cm
5-200m
625 sites
Palinuridae
Prepare to be amazed by the spiny rock lobsters, more commonly known as crayfish, belonging to the *Jasus* genus! These fascinating crustaceans add a touch of prehistoric charm to any dive. Typically around 40cm in length, encountering one of these creatures feels like stumbling upon a hidden treasure. These are the rockstars of the reef, often spotted lurking in crevices and under rocky overhangs between 5 and 200 meters deep. Keep an eye out while exploring dive sites, as they are frequently observed – a testament to their relatively common presence. Their vibrant colours and unique spiny shells make for unforgettable underwater encounters.
Crayfish are easily recognized by their robust, spiny exoskeleton. Their most distinguishing feature is the absence of large claws on their front legs, unlike true lobsters. Instead, they possess long, prominent antennae used for sensing their surroundings. The body is typically reddish-brown to orange in colour, often mottled with darker patches. Look for them scuttling sideways along the seabed or hiding in rocky crevices.
910 sites
