Nephrops / Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus)

A small (around 20cm in length) nocturnal pale orange lobster also known as scampi and langoustine that live in shallow burrows within silty mud. They are an economically important crustacean species in the northeast region and can be fished by trawl or baited pots.

Habitat: Found in shallow burrows within muddy sediment of depths from 20-800m.

Diet: Crustaceans, molluscs, polychaetes, and echinoderms.

Life cycle: Reach sexual maturity around 2-3 years old and reproduce annually. Mating takes place towards the end of spring and the female often remains in the burrow while the eggs are carried on the female abdomen for 8-9 months. They grow in moult stages similar to crustaceans.

Fishing gear used: Pots and demersal trawls.

NIFCA district & management: A permit is required to trawl within the NIFCA district. NIFCA byelaws also put restrictions on the gear that can be used and the vessel overall length. More information on the trawling byelaw and trawl permits can be found HERE.