Lobster
Slipper lobsters in Crete are flat, armored, and nocturnal—often hiding in rocky crevices. Rare and harmless, spotting one is a special treat for observant divers.
Slipper Lobster (Scyllarides latus)
Size: Up to 45 cm long
Appearance: Broad, flat body with large, plate-like antennae and a thick, mottled reddish-brown shell that blends into rocky surroundings
Habitat: Rocky crevices, reefs, and underwater caves, often at depths of 10–50 meters
Behavior: Nocturnal scavenger that feeds on mollusks and small invertebrates; hides during the day and moves slowly along the seabed
Notes: Slipper lobsters are harmless and lack claws. Rare and well-camouflaged, they’re a rewarding sight for careful divers exploring Crete’s coastal reefs.
Slipper lobsters are curious and prehistoric-looking creatures that dwell along Crete’s rocky seabeds and reef formations. Unlike their clawed cousins, slipper lobsters (Scyllarides latus) have a broad, flat body and large, plate-like antennae that give them a distinct “helmeted” appearance. Their mottled reddish-brown shells help them blend seamlessly with the rocks, making them well-camouflaged and difficult to spot during the day.
Nocturnal and slow-moving, these lobsters emerge at night to feed on small invertebrates, using their powerful legs to crawl rather than swim. Though not commonly seen, slipper lobsters are a delightful find for divers exploring the island’s caves and crevices. They are completely harmless and non-aggressive, adding an ancient, almost alien touch to the underwater world of Crete.
Due to overfishing in the Mediterranean, sightings are becoming rarer, making any encounter with a slipper lobster a unique and memorable experience that highlights the importance of marine conservation in Crete’s waters.