Observations on Metanephrops neptunus (Bruce, 1965) (Crustacea: Astacidea: Nephropidae) from the Pratas Islands, South China Sea

Abstract

The Neptune lobster, Metanephrops neptunus (Bruce, 1965), is reported from 300–600 m depths off the Pratas Islands southwest of Taiwan in the South China Sea. Seven males and three ovigerous females were captured in July 2019. Key morphological features and internal structures are described, with particular attention to the chelae, mandibles, gills, cephalothoracic and abdominal sculpturing, and gastric mills. The red-and-white coloration is described and illustrated from fresh specimens. The geographic range, depth of occurrence, stomach contents, and fecundity of the species are also noted.