Lobsters, those fascinating crustaceans often found gracing dinner plates, might seem like an unusual choice for a pet. In many coastal regions, they are a common sight in restaurants and markets. However, some people are drawn to their unique charm and have considered keeping them as pets. But before you decide to bring a lobster home from the fish market or the pet store, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure their well-being and your success as a lobster owner.
Species Selection: Not All Lobsters Are Created Equal
Just like dogs and cats, lobsters come in various species, and not all are well-suited for aquarium life. While many lobster species exist in the ocean, only a few adapt well to being kept in a tank environment. The most common types that can thrive as pets include:
- American Lobster ( Homarus americanus): Known for their large claws, these are the lobsters you often see in seafood restaurants. They can be kept as pets, but require very specific cold-water conditions.
- Spiny Lobsters (various species, like Panulirus argus): These lobsters, lacking the large claws of American lobsters, are often more adaptable to home aquariums, especially warmer water species.
- Dwarf Lobsters ( Cherax species): For those with smaller tanks, dwarf lobsters, often from the Cherax genus, can be a more manageable option. They are freshwater and smaller in size.
It’s absolutely critical to research the specific needs of any lobster species you are considering. Cold-water lobsters, like the American lobster, demand significantly colder temperatures than tropical species. Some species require vast amounts of space, while others are more tolerant of smaller setups. Furthermore, certain lobsters have a reputation for being more aggressive or having different dietary requirements. Thorough research is your first and most important step in responsible lobster ownership.
Tank Requirements: Space is Key
If you’re considering keeping a lobster, prepare to dedicate a significant amount of space. Lobsters are not small creatures, and most species need ample “elbow room” to thrive. A cramped environment can lead to stress, aggression, and even cannibalism.
As Gregory Skomal points out in Saltwater Aquariums for Dummies, lobsters are “feisty decapod crustaceans” that are “disruptive and territorial.” In an undersized tank, they can become highly stressed and destructive.
For a single small lobster, a 50-gallon tank is generally considered the absolute minimum, as recommended by experts like Drs. Foster & Smith. If you plan to house multiple lobsters, or a larger species, you will need to significantly increase the tank size. Consider the adult size of the lobster species you choose when determining tank volume.
Beyond size, the tank setup itself is crucial. Lobsters need hiding places, such as caves or rock formations, to feel secure. A proper filtration system is essential to maintain water quality, as lobsters can produce a significant amount of waste. For saltwater species, you’ll also need to maintain appropriate salinity levels and use saltwater-specific equipment.
Companionship: Solitary Creatures by Nature
Don’t expect your lobster to be a cuddly companion longing for interaction. In their natural ocean habitats, lobsters are primarily solitary animals. They are not social creatures and generally prefer to keep to themselves.
Even their mating habits are brief, lasting only long enough for fertilization. After mating, lobsters go their separate ways. This solitary nature extends to their behavior in captivity.
If you are determined to keep more than one lobster in a tank, you must take precautions to minimize aggression. One common method is to use a mesh screen to divide the tank, allowing you to maintain consistent water parameters while physically separating the lobsters and preventing territorial disputes. However, even with dividers, ample space is still crucial.
Diet: Mimicking Their Natural Food Sources
Lobster diets vary depending on the species, but in the wild, they are opportunistic omnivores and carnivores. They consume a wide range of sea life, including oysters, clams, mussels, fish, starfish, and even other crustaceans.
In captivity, replicating this varied diet is important for their health and well-being. For spiny lobsters, for instance, a combination of commercially available lobster pellets and various types of seafood is recommended. Pellets formulated with vegetable matter can provide essential nutrients. Supplementing with pieces of fish, shrimp, mussels, and other seafood can help mimic their natural feeding habits.
Lifespan: A Long-Term Commitment
Lobsters are known for their impressive longevity, especially in the wild. Some species can live for over 100 years. While their lifespan in captivity is less well-documented, they are still long-lived creatures, potentially outliving many more conventional pets.
The story of “George,” a 140-year-old, 20-pound lobster released back into the wild after public appeal, highlights their potential lifespan. Keeping a lobster is not a short-term commitment; it’s a decision that could span decades. Consider this long lifespan when deciding if a lobster is the right pet for you.
Research is Non-Negotiable
Due to the vast differences between lobster species, providing generalized care advice is challenging. Each species has unique requirements for water temperature, salinity, tank size, diet, and social behavior.
If you are serious about keeping a lobster as a pet, in-depth research into your chosen species is absolutely essential. Consult with experts at local aquariums or experienced hobbyists. Spend time learning about the specific needs of your desired lobster species before making any decisions. Proper preparation and knowledge are the keys to successfully and ethically keeping a lobster as a pet.
