The
American lobster can be found in the Atlantic only along the North American coast.
More
specifically, it can be found between Cape Hatteras in North Carolina (U.S.),
and the Strait of Belle Isle between Labrador and Newfoundland (Canada). However,
it is more abundant in the Gulf of Maine in the U.S., and in Canada close to
Nova Scotia and in the southern part of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Adult lobsters generally live in depths of less than 50 meters. However, some
have been seen at depths of up to 700 meters. Lobsters prefer rocky bottoms
covered with algae. This kind of habitat offers many cracks and shelters
in which the lobster can hide (
Photo below). It can
also dig a burrow under a large stone. Algae make it easier for lobsters
to hide, and they attract several organisms
on which lobsters feed. Occasionally, adult lobsters can also be found
on other types of bottoms such as vase, sand or gravel, but these are
not the habitats they prefer. When there are no cracks or algae to shelter,
lobsters dig a bowl-like depression in the soft substrates. Adult lobsters
often stay close to the coasts in the summer because the water is warmer,
and they migrate to open water in the winter to escape the turbulence.
Young lobsters (whose cephalothorax length measures less than 40 mm) stay generally close to the coasts at depths of less than 10 meters, on gravel and cobble bottoms. They can also be found on bottoms covered with mussel shells and algae. Young lobsters do not migrate to open water in winter. They remain hidden in their shelter during this season.
Shelters are important for lobsters, especially when they are small.
They use them for protection against predators, waves and currents. Since
lobsters
are rather nocturnal animals, and they do not enjoy light very much,
shelters are also used as protection against daylight. Sometimes, they
have two accesses: a main entrance and a smaller one through which
they can escape. Lobsters always remain in the entrance of their shelters
with their claws in front of them ready to defend themselves.
To enlarge (103 KB)
