Spiny lobsters belong to the infraorder Achelata, a fascinating group of decapod crustaceans characterized by the absence of large front claws, unlike their relatives the true lobsters. Currently, approximately 65 species have been described within this infraorder, which includes some of the most well-known and valued marine crustaceans in the world for their ecological, commercial, and gastronomic importance.
One of the most distinctive features of spiny lobsters is the lack of chelae (claws) on their front legs, which clearly differentiates them from other decapods. Instead, they have a pair of extremely long, thick, and spiny antennae, used both for defense and environmental sensing. Their body is protected by a hard, spiny carapace, giving them a robust appearance and helping to deter predators.
Morphologically, they have an elongated, segmented body with a muscular abdomen that they use to swim backward by rapidly flicking their fan-shaped tail. They display a wide variety of colors, ranging from brown and reddish tones to blues and greens, often with spots or stripes that help them camouflage in their natural environment.
Within the infraorder Achelata, there are three main families:
- The family Palinuridae, which includes the true spiny lobsters. The most representative genus is Panulirus, containing well-known species such as Panulirus argus (Caribbean spiny lobster), Panulirus interruptus (California spiny lobster), and Panulirus ornatus (ornate spiny lobster). These species mainly inhabit tropical and subtropical coral reefs and rocky bottoms.
- The family Scyllaridae, commonly known as slipper lobsters. Unlike spiny lobsters, they have a flattened body and shovel-shaped antennae. The genus Scyllarus includes several small species that hide in sandy seabeds or among debris.
- The family Synaxidae, a small family including lesser-known species such as Palinurellus gundlachi (Caribbean blind lobster), which inhabits deep and dark areas.
Spiny lobsters are widely distributed across all the world’s oceans, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. They are found in various habitats, from coral reefs and rocky bottoms to sandy areas and underwater crevices. Many species are nocturnal and spend the day hiding in caves or under rocks, emerging at night to feed.
Their diet is varied and omnivorous. They feed on molluscs, small crustaceans, worms, plant matter, and organic debris. They use their strong jaws to break shells and access food. Some species also scrape algae from the seabed.
Regarding reproduction, spiny lobsters have a complex life cycle. After mating, the female carries the eggs under her abdomen until they hatch. The larvae go through several planktonic stages, drifting in the ocean for weeks or even months before settling on the seabed and transforming into juveniles. This larval phase is known as the ‘puerulus stage’ and is essential for species dispersal.
