Norway lobster

Norway Lobster (Nephrops norvegicus), also known as the Dublin Bay Prawn, Langoustine or Scampi, is a commercially significant species of lobster found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, from the North Sea to the Mediterranean Sea.

Description

The Norway Lobster is a slim, orange-pink lobster which grows up to 25 cm long, and is the only species in its genus Nephrops. It is distinguished by its long, slender claws, which are markedly different from the large, heavy claws seen in the more familiar American Lobster.

Habitat and Distribution

The Norway Lobster is a burrowing species, preferring muddy seabed habitats where it can construct and inhabit burrows. It is found at depths of between 20 and 800 metres, although it is most commonly found at depths of between 50 and 100 metres. The species is widely distributed across the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, from the North Sea and the waters around Norway and the British Isles, south to the Mediterranean Sea.

Life Cycle and Behaviour

Norway Lobsters are solitary creatures, spending most of their time within their burrows. They are primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to feed on a diet of molluscs, worms and other small invertebrates. The species has a complex life cycle, with females carrying eggs for up to 8 months before they hatch into planktonic larvae. These larvae drift with the ocean currents for several months before settling on the seabed and developing into juvenile lobsters.

Commercial Significance

The Norway Lobster is one of the most important species for the European shellfish industry, particularly in the UK, where it is the most valuable catch. It is marketed under a variety of names, including Dublin Bay Prawn, Langoustine and Scampi, and is highly prized for its delicate, sweet flesh.

Conservation Status

Despite its commercial importance, there are concerns about the sustainability of Norway Lobster fisheries. Overfishing, habitat degradation and the impact of climate change are all potential threats to the species. Various measures, including quotas, closed seasons and minimum landing sizes, have been implemented in an attempt to ensure the sustainability of the fishery.