How to distinguish male and female lobsters
In the seafood market, lobster is favored by consumers for its delicious meat quality and high nutritional value. However, many people do not know how to distinguish male and female lobsters when buying large lobsters. In fact, there are obvious differences in body shape and abdominal structure between male and female lobsters. This article will introduce you in detail how to distinguish male and female lobsters, and attach structured data to help you master this skill easily.
1. The main differences between male and female lobsters

The main distinction between male and female lobsters is by observing their abdomen, genitals and body shape. Here are the main differences between male and female lobsters:
| Features | male lobster | female lobster |
|---|---|---|
| abdominal shape | Narrow, tapered | Wider and arc-shaped |
| genital position | Located at the base of the fifth pair of walking legs | Located at the base of the third pair of walking legs |
| body shape | Usually larger, with thicker pliers | Relatively small, with thinner pliers |
| abdominal appendage | The first pair of appendages are specialized as genitals | The first pair of appendages is not specialized |
2. Detailed differentiation method
1.Observe the shape of the abdomen: The abdomen of male lobsters is narrow and tapered, while the abdomen of female lobsters is wide and arc-shaped. This is the most intuitive way to distinguish them.
2.Check genital position: The male lobster's genitals are located at the base of the fifth pair of walking legs, which is protruding; the female lobster's genitals are located at the base of the third pair of walking legs, which is open-shaped.
3.Comparing size and pliers: Male lobsters are usually larger in size and have thick and powerful claws; female lobsters are relatively smaller in size and have slender claws.
4.View abdominal appendages: The first pair of abdominal appendages of male lobsters are specialized into genitals, while the first pair of appendages of female lobsters are not specialized and remain in their original form.
3. Why should we distinguish between male and female lobsters?
Distinguishing male and female lobsters not only helps consumers choose according to their needs, but also avoids purchasing products that do not meet expectations. The following are the main uses of male and female lobsters:
| Type | Features | fit for purpose |
|---|---|---|
| male lobster | The meat is firm and the tongs are fleshy. | Suitable for barbecue and garlic steaming |
| female lobster | There are shrimp roe in the abdomen, which tastes delicious | Suitable for steaming and making soup |
4. Things to note when buying lobster
1.Choose fresh lobster: Fresh lobsters have strong mobility and hard and shiny shells. Avoid buying lobsters with poor mobility or soft and rotten shells.
2.Pay attention to seasonality: Female lobsters will have shrimp seeds in their abdomen during the spawning period (usually spring and summer). You can taste the unique flavor of female lobsters when you buy them at this time.
3.Storage method: Lobster should be eaten as soon as possible after purchase. If it needs to be stored, it can be placed in a humid environment and avoid being soaked directly in water.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which one is more delicious, male or female lobster?
A: Male lobsters and female lobsters have their own characteristics. The male lobster has firm meat and is suitable for those who like chewy meat; the female lobster has shrimp roe, which makes it more delicious and suitable for those who pursue flavor.
Q: How to tell whether lobster is fresh?
A: Fresh lobsters are highly mobile, have hard and shiny shells, and have white or light gray gills. If the lobster has poor mobility, a soft and rotten shell, or black gills, it may not be fresh.
Q: Can lobster roe be eaten?
A: Lobster roe is edible, delicious and rich in nutrients. When female lobsters are spawning, shrimp seeds will be particularly abundant.
Conclusion
Through the above introduction, I believe you have mastered the method of distinguishing male and female lobsters. Whether it’s a male lobster or a female lobster, as long as you choose fresh products, you can enjoy a delicious seafood experience. Next time you buy large lobsters, try these methods to choose the one that best suits your needs!
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