Bahamas Spiny Lobster

Spiny Lobsters

The family palinuridae includes around 60 species of spiny lobsters. The species specific to the Caribbean's scientific name is panulirus argus. They're also called crayfish, though they're not the same as the fresh water variety. These creatures live in tropical and sub-tropical oceans around the world, so you'll likely see one on your next Bahamas snorkeling adventure.

Despite their unnerving name, spiny lobsters lack the large claws found on true lobstersandmdash;but they do have many spines. Aside from the lack of pincers, the spiny lobster can be identified by its blue accented spine covered rusty-earth tone colored body, long prickly antennae, cream colored spots, and the two distinct horns on its head.

In the Caribbean, they're found in shallow water around coral reefs and other places with plenty of cover for them to hide in. If you want a better chance of seeing a spiny lobster on the prowl (instead of hiding in a reef), plan your Bahamas snorkeling trip in the late afternoon to evening. That's the time when they leave their daytime hideouts and start looking for food on the ocean floor.

Speaking of food, the spiny lobster is an important staple in the Bahamas. After snorkeling, find a restaurant and discover how good these spiny creatures taste.