Understanding lobster biology, including sex distinctions, offers fascinating insights. Unlike some other animals, female lobsters do not have a unique scientific or widely recognized common name beyond “female lobster.” This straightforward designation reflects a key aspect of lobster identification and terminology.
Common and Informal Names for Lobsters
While “female lobster” is the most common term, the fishing industry and regional communities use several informal names. A mature female lobster is often called a “hen.” For smaller lobsters, especially those weighing around one pound, the term “chicken” is sometimes used, irrespective of sex, though it can also specifically refer to a small female. In French terminology, a female lobster carrying fully formed eggs might be known as a “paquette.” In contrast, a male lobster is often informally referred to as a “cock.”
Beyond Names: Understanding Lobster Terminology
Beyond the terms for male and female lobsters, the world of lobster lingo includes many specific descriptions. A “berried female” refers to a female lobster carrying fertilized eggs, which resemble berries, attached to the underside of her tail. These eggs, known as “roe” or “coral,” are deep red when raw and turn coral pink when cooked. The hepatopancreas, known as “tomalley,” is a greenish organ found in the body cavity that functions as both liver and pancreas.
Other terms describe the physical state of a lobster. A “cull” is a lobster that has lost one of its claws, often due to predator interaction, and is typically less expensive. If a lobster has lost both claws, it is called a “pistol.” Unlike some animals with distinct gender names (e.g., cow/bull), lobsters lack such varied terms. However, their rich descriptive terminology highlights nuances recognized by those who interact with them regularly.
Identifying Male and Female Lobsters
Distinguishing between male and female lobsters involves examining several physical characteristics, particularly on their underside. The most reliable indicator is the first pair of swimmerets, which are small appendages located on the underside of the tail, closest to the walking legs. In female lobsters, these swimmerets are soft and feathery, designed to hold eggs. Conversely, male lobsters possess rigid, hard, and bony swimmerets, which are used for sperm transfer during mating.
Differences in tail shape also provide clues. Female lobsters generally have a wider, broader tail compared to males, an adaptation necessary for carrying and protecting their eggs. While not always definitive, male lobsters often exhibit larger claws relative to their body size, whereas females may have slightly smaller claws but more tail meat. The presence of roe, either internally (unfertilized eggs) or externally (berried eggs), is a clear sign of a female lobster.