How big is the Caribbean spiny lobster?

Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) reaches 20–60 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Caribbean spiny lobster?

Caribbean spiny lobster is found between 0–90 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Caribbean spiny lobster?

IUCN status: Data deficient (DD).

Where can you find the Caribbean spiny lobster?

Found in: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific.

Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus)

Key facts

Scientific name: Panulirus argus
Common name: Caribbean spiny lobster
Category: Crustaceans
Family: Palinuridae
Genus: Panulirus
Size: 20–60 cm
Depth: 0–90 m
IUCN status: Data deficient (DD)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: reef, mangrove, rocky
Behaviours: nocturnal, gregarious, migratory
Ocean zones: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific

Description

Panulirus argus reaches 60 cm. Green-brown to purple-red body with two distinct yellow circular abdominal spots, very spiny long antennae. Unlike true lobsters, no claws. Famous annual single-file migrations (up to 50 individuals in line, tail-to-head) moving to deeper water as winter approaches, a fascinating behavior. Backbone of the Caribbean commercial fishery.

Photo of Caribbean spiny lobster

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Caribbean spiny lobster?: Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) reaches 20–60 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Caribbean spiny lobster?: Caribbean spiny lobster is found between 0–90 m deep.
Is the Caribbean spiny lobster dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Caribbean spiny lobster?: IUCN status: Data deficient (DD).
Where can you find the Caribbean spiny lobster?: Found in: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific.

Other species in the genus Panulirus

Other species in the family Palinuridae

Palinurus elephas - European spiny lobster

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 382891)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2221646)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia