More investors are joining a shareholder lawsuit against New York-traded Dynagas, with several jockeying to lead the charge.

This week, three groups representing six investors filed motions in Manhattan federal court seeking appointment as lead plaintiff in the attempted class action suit against the LNG carrier owner.

Together, the investors said they have lost more than $1m due to Dynagas' guidance that its long-term charters were providing enough cash flow to support generous distributions in an effort to keep the founding family's leading stake intact.