Lobster Migration

How do lobsters migrate? This is a question that scientists have studied to determine particular movement patterns for different species. One of the unique and interesting facts about their migratory habits is that they walk across the sea floor in single file, in large groups, as if they were marching. This 'marching dance' is the routine they will use to walk and traverse hundreds, if not thousands of miles to and from breeding grounds.


It is fascinating that they can keep track of where they are going while walking on the bottom of the ocean, but apparently it was recently discovered that certain lobsters, such as the spiny lobster may be able to utilize the Earth's magnetic field to navigate its direction. An interesting fact is that as they migrate in a single file line, they keep in contact with the next lobster by using their antennae to stay in touch, so to speak. There is always something new to learn when it comes to the oceans and its sea life.

Lobster Migration and Movement Patterns

When you watch the video clip below, you will notice how basic their behavior is to the naked eye, however, as you continue to view the images, it is apparent that nature has molded the species so that it is adapted to this form of moving. Even as potential predators approach the lines of walking lobsters, the line will stop and form a circle as protection against predators.

As seasonal and breeding patterns pressure the lobsters to gather in groups, they will leave the safety of their living and hiding places to congregate in these large groups for the march to their spawning grounds. Just like the tides in the ocean, there seems to be a rhyme and reason to how mother nature has developed their habits. It provides them a mechanism to further increase their numbers, through group habits and spawning instincts.

• Types of lobster

• Video: Lobster Migration Footage - Trials of Life  

The video shows some incredible footage of spiny lobsters in formation and migrating in the Caribbean. The nautical scenes are narrated by actor David Attenborough. The complete set of videos and DVDs  from the Trials of Life series are available for you to have at home so you can watch them whenever you want.

Photo credit: Spiny lobster - NOAA photo library

Resources:
• Migration: what we know. www.lobsters.org/ldoc/ldocpage.php?did=432    
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiny_lobster    
• www.unc.edu/depts/oceanweb/lobsters/migration.html