All about lobster > Glossary of Lobster-Related Terms

Banding
The process of placing a large elastic band around the lobster's claws so it can be held without danger and to preserve its quality.

Berried female
Also called a spawning female, this is a lobster that is carrying eggs beneath her tail.

Carapace
The hard shell covering the body of a lobster, measured from behind the eye socket to the rear of the main shell to ensure it is of legal size.

Coral
Coral is the unfertilized roe mass found within female lobsters.

Crusher claw
The larger of the two claws.

Cull
A lobster with one or no claws, generally sold for a lower price.

Hard shell lobster
A lobster on which the new carapace has hardened completely. It will yield 50 to 60% more meat than a soft shell lobster.

Live-tank
A sea water-filled tank on a lobster boat used to store live lobsters.

Pincher claw
The smaller claw.

Soft shell lobster
All known as a "shedder," this is a lobster that has recently shed its carapace to allow for new growth. At this stage, the yield of meat is low and its taste and texture are of lesser quality.

Trap
A wooden or wire cage that is baited and dropped into the water to capture live lobsters.