Can you tell the age of a lobster by the size of its shell?

Yes, the size of a lobster's shell can give an indication of its age, but it is not a precise measurement. Lobsters grow by molting their shells, so a larger shell suggests that the lobster has molted many times and is therefore older. However, factors such as food availability, temperature, and genetics can affect the size of a lobster's shell and therefore the accuracy of using shell size to determine age.

Moreover, scientists often rely on more accurate methods such as examination of growth bands on the eyestalk, which form during molting and can give a more precise estimate of age.

No, you cannot tell the age of a lobster by the size of its shell. Lobsters grow at different rates depending on their sex, environment, and other factors. So, a large lobster may not be older than a small lobster.

In fact, scientists have developed a new way of determining the age of a lobster based on its DNA. This technique is more accurate than previous methods, which relied on the lobster's size or the number of rings on its shell.

The new DNA-based technique could help manage lobster fisheries more sustainably. By knowing the age of lobsters, scientists can better understand how they are affected by fishing and other human activities. This information can be used to develop management plans that protect lobster populations and ensure that they are available for future generations.