Hapalogaster

Hapalogaster is a genus of squat lobsters, belonging to the family Chirostylidae, which are decapod crustaceans that share similarities with true lobsters but have a distinctive, squat body shape. There are currently two recognized species within this genus: Hapalogaster dentata and Hapalogaster mertensii. These squat lobsters inhabit the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean, living in diverse environments ranging from rocky bottoms to sandy plains. They play a vital role in the marine ecosystem as scavengers and predators, contributing to the balance of the benthic community.

Hapalogaster dentata

Common Names

Hapalogaster species are known by various common names, including:

  • Squat lobster
  • Deep-sea lobster
  • Hairy lobster

Characteristics

Hapalogaster species share several key characteristics that distinguish them from other lobsters:

  • Squat body shape: They possess a broad, flattened carapace, giving them a squat appearance.
  • Long, slender chelipeds: Their large claws are disproportionately long compared to their bodies, used for capturing prey.
  • Hairy exoskeleton: They have a velvety texture due to the presence of numerous fine hairs covering their body.
  • Reduced abdominal segments: The abdomen is short and compact, unlike true lobsters which have a long, segmented abdomen.
  • Nocturnal lifestyle: They are typically more active at night, foraging for food on the seafloor.

Environments

Hapalogaster species are found in the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean, inhabiting various environments:

  • Rocky bottoms: They often seek refuge and shelter among rocky crevices and ledges.
  • Sandy plains: Some species prefer sandy plains where they can burrow and hide from predators.
  • Deep-sea canyons: They have been observed in deep-sea canyons, where they feed on the abundant organic matter that settles on the seabed.

References

For further information on Hapalogaster, consult the following reliable resources: