Lobsters of the USA
Fishermen of the United States harvest a variety of lobsters, all of which are highly sought after by seafood lovers. These include the American lobster as well as several species of spiny lobsters.
The largest and most valuable is the American lobster, also known as Maine or northern lobster. This species is found off the USA East Coast from Maine southward to North Carolina and also in Canadian waters.
American lobsters shed their shells to grow, increasing their size by about 20% at every molt. Individuals molt about 20 times or more before reaching market size, which takes 5 to 7 years.
Typically, price and quality are dependent upon what stage of growth the lobsters are in. Hard-shell lobsters may yield up to 50 percent more meat than soft-shelled individuals. Hard-shells also tend to survive longer in holding tanks which makes them more suited for the live market.
American lobsters yield a considerable amount of meat. Their claws and tail contain the most meat but a small amount can be also be found in the legs and body. Tomalley is the soft, green substance found in the body cavity of the lobster. It functions as the liver and pancreas, and much like the liver of other animals, the lobster's tomalley is the natural filter for contaminants. Although not widely consumed, tomalley is considered by some to be a delicacy.
According to health experts, lobster meat contains omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids (including lysine), potassium, magnesium , vitamin B2 (riboflavin), B3(niacin), B6, and B12, calcium, phosphorous, iron and zinc.
In addition to the large American lobster, the USA is home to several species of spiny (rock) lobsters. On the West Coast, California spiny lobsters are found from the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula to Monterey Bay, Ca. Similar species are found off the waters of Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.
Spiny lobsters have no claws, a harder shell and large antenna. Most of the meat is contained in the tail section. Spiny lobsters are sold live locally or shipped as frozen tail-only products.
In the U.S., a variety of lobster meals are popular. In the northeast, lobsters are served whole, either boiled or steamed as well as in dishes such as lobster rolls, bisques and other dishes. Spiny lobsters are served in a myriad of ways, often as grilled, split tails, salads or in other appealing dishes.
Links
Other sources of wholesale and retail online seafood can be found in our seafood directory.