The Achelata is an infra-order of the reptant Decapoda. It contains the spiny lobsters (Palinuridae), the slipper lobsters (Scyllaridae) and the furry lobsters (Synaxidae, sometimes included in Palinuridae). The name "Achelata" derives from the fact that all the members of this group lack the claws that are found on almost all other decapods (from the Greek a = not, chela = claw). They are further united by the great enlargement of the first antennae, by the special Phyllosoma form of the larva, and by a number of other characters.
Last updated: 05-27-2005 00:32:25
