The University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Borneo Marine Research Institute (IMB) has recorded three spiny lobster species in Sabah waters for the first time, including two species newly documented in Malaysia and one newly recorded in Sabah. This discovery further cements Sabah’s reputation as a global hotspot for marine biodiversity.
According to a UMS statement, the research led by IMB researcher Assoc Prof Dr Chen Cheng Ann, together with Master of Science student Ng Wei-Ling who identified the spiny lobsters as the ornate spiny lobster subspecies (Panulirus homarus homarus), the mud-dwelling spiny lobster (P. polyphagus), and the white-bearded long-legged spiny lobster (P. femoristriga).
The white-bearded long-legged spiny lobster and the ornate spiny lobster subspecies are new records for Malaysia, while the mud-dwelling spiny lobster is newly recorded in Sabah.
Professor Chen highlighted the significance of the discovery, noting that it updates Malaysia’s marine biodiversity records and underscores the need to strengthen fisheries resource management in Sabah.
“Before this study, only three spiny lobster species were known in Sabah waters since 2004: the ornate spiny lobster (P. ornatus), the variegated spiny lobster (P. versicolor), and the long-legged spiny lobster (P. longipes). Our research increases the number to six, showing there is still much marine biodiversity in Sabah yet to be explored,” he said.
The team also documented the Chinese spiny lobster (P. stimpsoni) on the Malaysian Peninsula, further expanding the national species list.
UMS Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Kahin praised the team for their achievement, describing it as a major contribution to marine science and a reflection of Malaysia’s research excellence. IMB Director Fehana noted that the discovery showcases the institute’s strong research capabilities and high-quality scientific output.
