Conservation of unique patterns of body markings at ecdysis enables identification of individual spiny lobster, Jasus edwardsii

Abstract

Southern temperate rock lobsters (Jasus edwardsii) develop complex body markings and spines that vary uniquely among individuals. These markings are retained after moulting allowing individuals to be recognised without capture or handling in the field. This enables the impact of capture, handling, and tagging procedures on subsequent movements to be more confidently evaluated. Recognition of individuals by natural markings allows post-moult lobsters that were externally tagged and held in large communal tanks to be correctly retagged. Distinctive markings on the pedate processes and on the epistoma, as well as the number and placement of small spines on the antennular plate are particularly useful for recognising individuals. It is highly likely that the other Jasus species and the brightly patterned and coloured Panulirus species have similar body markings and spine patterns that would aid recognition of individuals. © 2005, Copyright Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.