Spiny squat lobster by Paul Naylor
Spiny squat lobster
Scientific name: Galathea strigosa
A bizarre half lobster/half crab, this squat lobster is one of the true stunners of the rocky shore!
Species information
Statistics
Up to 10cm long (including tail)Conservation status
Fairly common
When to see
April to OctoberAbout
Squat lobsters look a bit like a cross between crabs and lobsters or a tiny lobster curled in half! They have a long, flattened body and a tail tucked up underneath. As with many other crustaceans, squat lobsters can use their tail as a paddle to escape backwards very quickly.How to identify
This species is particularly vibrant, with a stunning red body, decorated with electric blue stripes across the body and around the eyes. Two long, chunky, red claws stick out in front, covered in thick brown hairs (spines).Distribution
Fairly common around the UK, North east Atlantic, Mediterranean and Red SeasHabitats
Did you know?
This species is more likely to be found at night, when it leaves its rocky crevice to scavenge for food!How people can help
Always follow the Seashore Code when rockpooling, taking care where you walk and making sure you put animals and rocks back gently.
Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
As a charity we rely on memberships
Memberships help us campaign for better protection and management of our seas.
Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
Seas in crisis
Plastic-strewn beaches, fisheries on the verge of collapse and the ever growing effects of global climate change.