The spiny lobster, Jasus lalandei (H. Milne- Edwards), in South Australia. I. Growth of captive animals

Abstract

Carapace length and total length of the spiny lobster are directly related. Weight increases as the cube of the carapace length. Changes in morphology are used to describe the moulting cycle, and growth rate based on change in weight and length at moult is calculated. Increasing temperature increases the frequency of moulting. Absolute increase in length per moult does not differ significantly with size, but small animals moult more frequently than larger ones.

The validity of data in relation to field application is discussed. Estimates of growth from this investigation compare favourably with results obtained in the field, and on captive animals by other authors for J. lalandei and related species.