Flathead Lobster

Thenus orientalis

Also known as: Bay Lobster, Bug, Bug Lobster, Common Flapjack Lobster, Flathead Locust Lobster, Gulf Lobster, Moreton Bay Bug, Mud Lobster, Mug Bug Lobster, Northern Bay Lobster, Rock Lobster, Sand Bug Lobster, Sand Crayfish, Sand Lobster, Shovel-nosed Lobster

ALSO KNOWN AS

Bay Lobster
Bug
Bug Lobster
Common Flapjack Lobster
Flathead Locust Lobster
Gulf Lobster
Moreton Bay Bug
Mud Lobster
Mug Bug Lobster
Northern Bay Lobster
Rock Lobster
Sand Bug Lobster
Sand Crayfish
Sand Lobster
Shovel-nosed Lobster

LCLeast ConcernIUCN Red List, 2011

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Flathead Lobster adult, photographed at Lembeth Resort, Indonesia — @fishx6 · Lembeth Resort, Indonesia · June 20061 / 8

Overview

Found singly or in small pods on gravel, mud, sand and shell bottoms of reefs.

Lobsters live in caves and crevices during the day, often several together, coming out at night to feed.
Sometimes caught in the torches of divers where they scuttle off back into the dark.
They do not have true claws, the soft and flexible tail is used for swimming rapidly backwards, for short distances to get away from danger.
Spiny lobsters are caught in baited lobster pots for gourmet dining.