Lobsters

Lobsters are large crustaceans that live on the ocean floor. They have hard shells, long antennae, and two big claws. One claw is larger and used for crushing. The other is thinner and used for cutting. Lobsters come in many colors, but most turn red when cooked.

Life on the Sea Floor

Lobsters walk along the ocean bottom using their eight legs. They hide in rocky crevices and come out at night to hunt. Lobsters eat fish, clams, mussels, and even other lobsters. They can walk forward, backward, and sideways.

Growing Bigger

Lobsters grow by shedding their old shell, just like crabs. Young lobsters molt many times a year. Older lobsters molt less often. Lobsters keep growing their whole lives and can live a very long time. The oldest known lobster was estimated to be over 100 years old.

Fun Facts

• Lobsters taste with their feet.
• They can be blue, yellow, or even white in rare cases.
• A lobster's claws can exert a force of up to 100 pounds.

Did You Know?

Lobsters used to be so common in America that they were considered poor people's food. Prisoners in the 1800s complained about being served lobster too often!