Whether you’re cooking at home or dining at a local restaurant, lobster is perfect for just about any occasion. Despite being one of the most popular seafood options out there, though, most people can’t tell male or female lobsters apart. Learn what to look for in the guide below to tell the difference.

What Differentiates Male & Female Lobsters?

1. Swimmerets

These appendages are found underneath the tails and help lobsters move through the water. On females, the first pair of swimmerets closest to the head are thin, feathery, and soft. On males, they’re hard and bony because they’re used in the mating process.

2. Shield on Abdomen

If you can’t see the underside of a lobster, there is an additional clue to the sex besides the swimmerets. On females, you’ll notice a rectangular shield situated between the second pair of walking legs. It’s where the female stores sperm released by the male until it’s time to release her eggs.

3. Tail

Because females have to carry eggs, their tails tend to be wider. Here is where you might find unfertilized eggs, called roe, which become bright red when cooked and are edible.

Additionally, females’ tails are often more curved, whereas males’ are straight and narrower.

 

When you’re in the mood for lobster, head to Cajun King in Aiea, HI. As one of the area’s premier seafood restaurants since 2013, they serve up the freshest seafood with an Asian and Cajun twist for the whole family. With their expansive menu, they have something for everyone: besides lobster, they offer oysters, crab, shrimp, crawfish, clams, and mussels. Make a reservation by calling (808) 484-2221 today, or check out their menu offerings online. You can also preview photos of their dishes on their Facebook page.