Scyllaeidae
Scyllaeidae is a family of marine crustaceans belonging to the order Decapoda. These small, squat lobsters are commonly known as “scyllarid lobsters” or “flat lobsters“. They are distinguished by their flattened bodies, broad, leaf-like antennae, and the absence of claws on the first pair of legs. Scyllaeidae is a relatively small family, comprising approximately 30 species across six genera.
Characteristics
Scyllaeidae species are characterized by their distinctive flattened bodies, which are typically wider than they are tall. This unique shape is adapted for life in crevices and under rocks, where they can squeeze into tight spaces to avoid predators. Their bodies are covered in a hard, chitinous exoskeleton that provides protection and support.
Scyllarid lobsters have large, leaf-like antennae that are often longer than their bodies. These antennae are used for sensing the environment and detecting prey. They also have a pair of small eyes located on stalks at the front of their heads.
Unlike most lobsters, scyllarid lobsters do not have claws on their first pair of legs. Instead, they have short, stout legs that are used for walking and grasping food. Their mouthparts are adapted for crushing and grinding their prey, which typically consists of mollusks, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates.
Habitat and Distribution
Scyllaeidae species are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. They are most common in the Indo-Pacific region, but they also occur in the Atlantic and Caribbean. They inhabit a variety of marine habitats, including rocky reefs, coral reefs, and sandy bottoms.
Reproduction
Scyllarid lobsters are dioecious, meaning they have separate sexes. Males are often larger than females, and they compete for access to females during the breeding season. Females lay large numbers of eggs, which are typically attached to the underside of their abdomen. The eggs hatch into free-swimming larvae, which eventually settle to the bottom and develop into juveniles.
Commercial Importance
Some scyllarid lobster species are commercially valuable, particularly in certain regions of the world. They are often caught using traps or nets, and their flesh is considered a delicacy. However, overfishing and habitat degradation have led to declines in some populations, and conservation efforts are needed to ensure the sustainability of these fisheries.