History
There are over 30 species of lobster worldwide, with Atlantic lobsters, known for their asymmetrical claws, being the most common. They are arthropods, which means they have jointed legs and a hard shell, but it also means their natural history stretches back over 500 million years to some of the very earliest creatures that called Earth’s oceans home. Their family tree includes ancient trilobites, as well as modern insects, shrimp, and crabs. Their conservation status is least concern, and the efforts of Maine lobster fisherman is a big part of the reason. Although about 85% of the country’s lobsters are caught off the coast of Maine, the population remains strong. Fisherman, by law, return large lobsters to the sea and mark egg-bearing female lobsters. Both actions ensure that successful breeders stay in the water.
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