Holthuis, 1967
Diagnosis:
Fourth segment of antenna with 6 teeth on the outer margin (apical tooth not included). Squamiform tubercles on upper surface of carapace pointed and not appressed. The posterior of the two lateral teeth of the carapace before the cervical incision smaller than the first. Legs short and robust. The transverse groove which separates two parts of the abdominal somites is narrow and filled with many short hairs. The median carinae of the second and third abdominal somites are usually almost level with the surface of the somites. Anterior part of the second to fifth abdominal somites, which disappears under the previous somite when the abdomen is fully stretched, carries distinct tubercles.
Type:
Type locality: "Easter Island" Holotype female in RMNH, no. D 21257, in alcohol, condition excellent.
Geographical Distribution:
So far only known from Easter Island, Pacific Ocean.
Habitat and Biology:
In shallow water among the rocks, the animals hide in the daytime in marine caves and crevices.
Size:
Carapace length 4 to 5 cm. Maximum total body length about 11 cm.
Interest to Fisheries:
The species is fished by the population of Easter Island by wading in the water both at night and in the daytime. The lobsters are stepped upon and then picked up by hand; divers enter the caves and crevices and pick them up there. At night the fishery takes place with torches.