Click here for printable version of this section

This study pulls together data relevant to the delineation of lobster habitats throughout the NW Atlantic region (Fig. 1) in both state and federal waters of the United States (Fig. 2). The goal is to consolidate basic scientific information and recent research on bottom sediments, rock types, and water conditions with lobster biology. This report is the result of an extensive review of the literature as well as existing maps and charts that could shed light on American lobster ecology. Every effort was made to include the latest scientific findings and maps (even if preliminary or unpublished) in order to take full advantage of the current state of knowledge in the lobster field. In addition, input from lobster fishermen up and down the New England Coast was solicited in an effort to include their experience in the pool of available resources.