Palinurus (crustacean)

Palinurus is a genus of spiny lobsters within the family Palinuridae. These large crustaceans are found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. They are characterized by their prominent spines covering their carapace and antennae, lacking large claws (chelae) on their front legs unlike true lobsters.

Species within the genus Palinurus are commercially important as a food source, being fished and sold in markets around the world. The European spiny lobster, Palinurus elephas, is perhaps the most well-known species.

These lobsters are typically nocturnal, hiding in crevices and rocky areas during the day and emerging at night to feed. Their diet consists of a variety of benthic invertebrates, including mollusks, crustaceans, and echinoderms.

Palinurus species are relatively slow-growing and late-maturing, making them vulnerable to overfishing. Conservation efforts and sustainable fishing practices are crucial to ensuring the long-term viability of these populations. The classification and taxonomy of Palinurus species have been subject to revision over time, and ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of their evolutionary relationships.