This exoskeleton is molted periodically as the lobster grows and ages.

Shortly after molting the lobsters are in a more vulnerable state and therefore go deep into their hiding so that they can be safer until their carapace hardens once again.

[citation needed] They are usually found in shallow, warm waters around 62m deep and between 23 - 24°C (73.4 - 75.2°F).

[4] They are easy to find and catch due to often being found in shallow waters, however they are now a protected species in Hawaii and regulations work to maintain their population.

These regulations state that no spiny lobsters may be caught between May-August, and no females with eggs may ever be taken.