Fishermen considered them a nuisance when they became entangled in their nets. However, for quite a number of years, the lobster has become a highly sought after creature. Gourmets the world over prize this crustacean as the most delectable. As a result, lobsters are now trapped unremittingly, and it appears that their populations - at least in certain areas are threatened. Most females, don't get a chance to reproduce even once before being caught by the fishing industry.
Scientists are concerned, and are calling for stiffer controls.
Fishermen and producers claim that the industry is already severely over-regulated. In any event, there is a need for reexamination of a management code which has evolved over the past 90 years. Ultimately, it is obvious that all concerns are contingent upon the protection of the species. It has no immediate relatives in Canada. It does have, however, one European brother - Homarus vulgarism Also related is the Norway lobster or scampi.