The European lobster - Homarus gammarus

Species Distribution
The European lobster, often called the common lobster, can be found along every coastline of the UK (The Wildlife Trusts, 2024). This species boasts a broad distribution, stretching from Scandinavia to North Africa (CEFAS, 2017). European lobsters are recognised for their strong territorial behaviour, often occupying shelters alone on the ocean floor (IFCA North West, 2024). They typically prefer hard substrates in shallow waters, ranging from the low tide mark to depths of up to 60 metres, where they establish holes, burrows or crevices (The Wildlife Trusts, 2024). 

IUCN Species Assessment
The European lobster is currently classified as a species of least concern, owing to its extensive geographic range and abundance of suitable habitat, as seen in Figure 1. Although commercially exploited for food, the annual catch of this species has indicated a steady increase in stocks over the past 30 years (MacDiarmid et al., 2009).

Species Importance In Scottish Waters
In 2023, Scottish fisheries landed 1,000 tonnes of lobster, generating sales exceeding £14 million for £14,413 per tonne (Scottish Sea Fisheries Statistics, 2023). These species are vital to Scotland's economy, particularly in small fishing towns, as they support local fishermen and their families while also benefiting related sectors such as fish markets and restaurants. The European lobster is especially valuable to fishermen, with seasonal prices reaching up to £20 per kg at first sale, a figure likely to rise with increasing demand (Gov.Scot, 2023).
In addition to their economic significance, European lobsters play a crucial role in British marine ecosystems, aiding with the transfer of energy and minerals throughout food webs (Scottish Wildlife Trust, 2019). Removal of key species such as these can destabilise ecosystems, contributing to unhealthy species-poor habitats and creating further implications for the fishing industry. 
Despite the IUCN species assessment, the most recent species review by Marine Scotland has raised significant concerns about unsustainable fishing levels, claiming that “European lobster stocks across the UK are being fully exploited and are at risk of collapse” (Scottish Wildlife Trust, 2019).

The Future of European lobster in Scotland
To prevent the collapse of European lobster stocks, the Scottish government has implemented interim measures starting from 12th May 2024, before further stock assessment takes place this year. These measures include controls on creel fishing vessels over 12 metres that have landed more than 200 tonnes of crab and/or lobster in any 12-month period since 2020. In addition to the continued prohibition of the landing of egg-bearing crab and lobster (Gov.Scot, 2024). 
Additionally, the further establishment of hatcheries will be considered across the country, such as the Firth of Forth Lobster Hatchery, which has proven to be an effective strategy for restoring wild lobster populations (Gov.Scot, 2024).