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Spiny squat lobster (Galathea strigosa)

Photo of Spiny squat lobster (Galathea strigosa)

Key facts

Scientific name
Galathea strigosa
Common name
Spiny squat lobster
Category
Crustaceans
Family
Galatheidae
Genus
Galathea
Size
8–12 cm
Depth
0–600 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
rocky, cave
Behaviours
nocturnal, solitary
Ocean zones
East Atlantic, Mediterranean

Description

Galathea strigosa reaches 12 cm. Small galatheid crustacean with a flattened red-orange body crossed by characteristic bright electric-blue lines, large claws and long antennae. Abdomen tucked under the thorax unlike shrimps. Nocturnal, spends the day hidden in rock crevices and under stones, emerges at night. Lives from 0 to 600 m, from Norway to the Mediterranean. Appreciated macro photo subject for its colors.

Photo of Spiny squat lobster

Photo of Spiny squat lobster (Galathea strigosa)Photo of Spiny squat lobster (Galathea strigosa)

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Spiny squat lobster?
Spiny squat lobster (Galathea strigosa) reaches 8–12 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Spiny squat lobster?
Spiny squat lobster is found between 0–600 m deep.
Is the Spiny squat lobster dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Spiny squat lobster?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Spiny squat lobster?
Found in: East Atlantic, Mediterranean.

Other species in the genus Galathea

  • Galathea squamifera - Black squat lobster

Other species in the family Galatheidae

  • Lauriea siagiani - Hairy squat lobster

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 107155)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 5178351)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia