Lobsters, of the family Nephropidae in the narrow sense, but of the suborder Astacidae in the broad sense, including also reef lobsters and crayfish, are decapod crustaceans. They are most known for their elongated shape, claws, taste, and tendency to feed on what can often be described as 'shit'.
Lobsters may use their signature claws for handling food, threatening displays, and fighting intraspecific competitors. The first pair of claws is often the largest, with two extra, smaller, pairs behind them. While sea lobsters are the most famous, freshwater lobsters are also abundant. The red swamp crayfish, Procambus clarkii, is a species originating from the new world, but which has successfully invaded much of the old world, carrying with it the "crayfish plague", a type of harmful fungus. In its new habitats it is often outcompeting and pushing out native species, and has become a popular food item.
Lobster soup is particularly tasty.
Suggested new slang:
Neppies
Neps
'soupfish'
