Lobsters can only mate after the female molts. Before that stage, the female releases pheromones (chemicals) into the water to let nearby males know she is preparing to molt and mate. ... Once she has shed her hard exoskeleton, the male gently turns her over and pierces her abdomen with his first pair of pleopods.

How do lobsters reproduce sexually?

LOBSTERS REPRODUCE WITH SHORT-LIVED RELATIONSHIPS

He uses his first pair of abdominal limbs or appendages, called swimmerets, to transfer his sperm into a receptacle on her body. She remains safe in the den for about a week while her new shell forms and hardens. It's a short-lived romance.

How does a lobster have babies?

Yes, lobsters lay eggs. A freshly-laid lobster egg is the size of the head of a pin (1/16"). ... The female lobster carries the eggs inside for 9 to 12 months and then for another 9 to 12 months attached to the swimmerets under her tail. When the eggs hatch, the larvae will float near the surface for 4 to 6 weeks.