Which crustacean has the longest spawning season?

The blue crab is known for having the longest spawning season among the choices listed. Typically, the spawning season for blue crabs can extend from late spring through early fall, often resulting in multiple spawning events within that period. This extended spawning timeframe allows blue crabs to produce a significant number of eggs, increasing their chances of survival in a fluctuating environment where predation and environmental conditions can vary.

In contrast, the other crustaceans mentioned have more limited spawning seasons. The Caribbean spiny lobster generally has a more defined spawning period that is not as prolonged as that of the blue crab. Similarly, the Maine lobster and Penaeid shrimp tend to have specific spawning periods that are shorter, typically concentrated around certain times of the year based on environmental factors such as temperature and food availability. Thus, the ability of the blue crab to spawn over a longer duration gives it a reproductive advantage in its ecosystem.