The Indo-Pacific Furry Lobster, scientifically known as Palinurellus wieneckii, is a tropical species that inhabits the ocean floor at depths ranging from 1 to 27 meters (approximately 3 to 89 feet). This lobster can reach a total body length of up to 20 centimeters (about 7.9 inches), with its carapace measuring a maximum of 8 centimeters (around 3.1 inches). Typically, individuals are observed with body lengths between 10 to 14 centimeters (approximately 3.9 to 5.5 inches).
The distinctive feature of this species is its bright orange coloration, which is accentuated by a covering of short, translucent bristles. These lobsters belong to the order Decapoda, and are predominantly gonochoric, meaning that individuals are either male or female. Their mating behavior includes a precopulatory courtship ritual that relies on both olfactory and tactile cues, typically resulting in indirect sperm transfer.
The Indo-Pacific Furry Lobster is found across the Indo-Pacific region and is involved in commercial fisheries, indicating its economic importance and role in local marine ecosystems.
Why it's threatened
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
