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Western Rock Lobster

Marine life profile

Western Rock Lobster

Recorded at 0 dive sites

Where divers encounter it

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<i><b>Panulirus cygnus</b></i> is a species of spiny lobster (family Palinuridae), found off the west coast of Australia. <i>Panulirus cygnus</i> is the basis of Australia's most valuable fishery, making up 20% of value of Australia's total fishing industry, and is identified as the <b>western rock lobster</b>. Most stay close to cover, emerging to feed, clean other animals or defend a small shelter.

Dive sites0
Countries0
Animal groupCrustaceans
Safety profileGenerally Harmless

Meet the species

What to look for

How to Recognize It

Look for a jointed shell, paired antennae and articulated legs adapted for walking, digging or gripping.

How It Behaves

Most stay close to cover, emerging to feed, clean other animals or defend a small shelter.

Special Ability

A tough external skeleton provides portable armor and is replaced as the animal grows.

Dive responsibly

Share the water well

How to Approach

Settle nearby and wait. Avoid touching antennae, claws or the shelter, especially during a night dive.

Safety

Observe without handling. Claws and defensive spines can injure, and recently molted animals are especially vulnerable.

Worth knowing

The detail you remember

Interesting Facts

<i><b>Panulirus cygnus</b></i> is a species of spiny lobster (family Palinuridae), found off the west coast of Australia. <i>Panulirus cygnus</i> is the basis of Australia's most valuable fishery, making up 20% of value of Australia's total fishing industry, and is...

Where to Find

Search beneath ledges, inside coral heads, around anemones and across rubble after sunset.