Lobsters

Lobsters are one of the most valuable and highly priced seafoods. Among them, the spiny lobsters (rock lobsters), especially the live ones fetch the highest price. In India, though lobsters form only 0.12± 0.06% of total marine landings, they are an important export commodity comprising 1.07±0.44% in quantity and 2.59±1.15% in value. Heavy demand and attractive price for lobsters in the international market have resulted in increased exploitation of lobsters in recent years. The multispecies and multigear fishery involving both traditional and mechanised sectors pose problems for effective management. A review of the current status of lobster fishery in India along with various options for their management and conservation is presented here