Regime shift of a kelp-forest benthic community induced by an 'invasion' of the rock lobster Jasus lalandii

► We surveyed benthic communities in areas with high and low rock lobster densities. ► Benthic communities differed significantly according to lobster density and depth. ► Herbivores and encrusting corallines are replaced with foliar algae and lobsters. ► The lobster-invasion has huge implications for the ecosystem and abalone fishery. ► We argue a case of alternate stable states.