Description

The Mediterranean slipper lobster is a very large-looking crustacean that can grow up to 50 centimetres long and weigh up to one kilogram! It shell is a browny colour allowing it to melt into its background. Only the base of its purple coloured antennae give it away. It lives in rocky scree, caves and crevices at the surface of the sea and down as far as 100 meters deep.

Scientific name

Scyllarides latus

Natural habitats

Rocky seabeds

Did you know?

The Mediterranean slipper lobster can sometimes carry small algae or invertebrates on its shell, which improves its camouflage even further!

Conservation stake

Very strong

Threats

Appreciated for its meat, it has been subject to intense fishing which has endangered its naturally small numbers.

Pollution and changes to its environment

Conservation management initiatives

Protected at a national level in France, it is prohibited to fish it

How can I help to protect it?

I comply to fishing restrictions.