Reproductive Status, Sex Ratios and Morphometrics of the Slipper Lobster Scyllarides nodifer (Stimpson) (Decapoda: Scyllaridae) in the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

Morphometric data on the slipper lobster, Scyllarides nodifer, was determined by assessing the catch of a commercial vessel trawling in the northeast Gulf of Mexico on a 3-day cruise In April, 1985. Over 900 lobsters were captured during 17 trawls In two well-established areas. Reproductive status, male:female ratios and the relationship between carapace length and weight were determined. Forty-six percent of the lobsters captured were determined. Forty-slx percent of the lobsters captured were female. A high percentage of these females were ovigerous, extending the previously reported reproductive season of this species. Mean weight of the lobsters was 430.5 g and the carapace length was 95 mm. No juvenile S. nodifer were captured. The first reported migratory behavior for S. nodifer Is presumed from nightly catches in small well-defined trawl areas. In addition, the first description of a new habitat for this species in this area Is Included.