ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

European Lobster

The European lobster, scientifically known as Homarus gammarus, is a species of clawed lobster native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and parts of the Black Sea. It is widely distributed across these regions, with notable populations found in the British Isles.

This species is not endemic to Australia or Brazil, contrary to initial claims; instead, it has been introduced to various locations through human activity. The European lobster's distribution spans from the continental shelf at depths of 0-150 meters (0-492 ft), where they inhabit areas with other benthic invertebrates.

Description and Characteristics

The European lobster is a large crustacean, typically measuring up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) in body length and weighing between 5.6 kilograms (11.13 pounds). However, lobsters caught using traditional methods are usually smaller, ranging from 23-38 centimeters (9-15 inches) in length.

One of the distinctive features of the European lobster is its hard exoskeleton, which it must shed periodically through a process called ecdysis or molting. This process allows the lobster to grow and replace its shell with a new one. The first pair of pereiopods on an adult European lobster has a large, asymmetrical foot used for crushing prey.

Life Cycle

European lobsters undergo a complex life cycle that involves multiple stages. Females reach sexual maturity when they have grown to a carapace length of 80-85 millimeters (3.1-3.3 inches), while males mature at a slightly smaller size. The entire process, which includes three molts and lasts for approximately 15-35 days, is crucial in determining the lobster's reproductive readiness.

Diet and Habitat

The European lobster is an important food source, with its meat being highly prized by chefs worldwide. They are commonly caught using traditional methods around the British Isles. In terms of habitat, European lobsters live on the continental shelf at depths ranging from 0-150 meters (0-492 ft), where they coexist with other benthic invertebrates.

Interestingly, the American lobster (Homarus americanus) has distinct characteristics that set it apart from its European counterpart. The former species often features one or more spines on the underside of their shell and can have a range of colors, including pinkish-red hues. In contrast, the European lobster tends to be white or pale