Lobsters are a familiar sight on dinner plates, especially in Northeastern regions where they are a culinary staple. You can find lobster rolls at fast food joints and lobster dinners in upscale restaurants. But beyond the plate, lobsters are gaining popularity as unique pets, offering a fascinating alternative to traditional aquarium inhabitants. Surprisingly, these crustaceans aren’t much harder to care for than other marine pets, making them an intriguing option for experienced and novice aquarists alike.
However, before you rush to the nearest coast to scoop up a lobster, there are crucial factors to consider to ensure the well-being of your potential Pet Lobster.
Species Selection: Not All Lobsters Are Created Equal
While the term “lobster” conjures up a general image, there are numerous lobster species, but only a select few are well-suited for aquarium life. The most adaptable species for home tanks typically fall into these categories:
It’s vital to remember that each lobster type has unique needs. Cold-water lobsters, for instance, require precisely chilled environments to thrive. Some species demand expansive territories, while others are known for producing significant waste, impacting tank maintenance. Certain lobsters are also notoriously predatory and might view other tank inhabitants as food. Thorough research into the specific species you’re interested in is paramount before committing to keeping pet lobsters.
One of the undeniable perks of owning a pet lobster? No walks required, and you can confidently say goodbye to indoor “accidents” on your carpets!
Tank Territory: Giving Your Pet Lobster Elbow Room
Space is a primary concern when setting up a habitat for pet lobsters. As highlighted in Saltwater Aquariums for Dummies, lobsters are described as “feisty decapod crustaceans” that are “disruptive and territorial, not to mention cannibalistic.” This underscores the critical need for adequate tank size.
Lobsters are inherently territorial and will engage in fights for dominance and space. If you envision keeping multiple pet lobsters, a significantly larger tank is essential. Drs. Foster & Smith recommend a minimum of a 50-gallon tank for just one small lobster. Prospective pet lobster owners must first assess whether they have sufficient space to accommodate the necessary tank setup.
Interestingly, while cannibalism is rare among lobsters in their natural ocean environment, it becomes a more common occurrence in captivity. Furthermore, pet lobsters are opportunistic feeders and are likely to prey on any other creatures within their tank, including fish and other shellfish.
Companionship: Solitary Creatures at Heart
If you’re seeking a pet that craves companionship, a lobster might not be the ideal choice. In their natural habitat, lobsters are generally solitary animals, preferring their own space and exhibiting a somewhat reclusive nature.
Even their mating habits reflect their solitary tendencies. Lobster mating is a brief encounter, lasting only a few days until fertilization occurs. After mating, the female lobster retreats to her own territory to allow her shell to harden after molting and to lay eggs, while the male seeks out other females.
For those determined to keep more than one pet lobster, physical separation within the tank is crucial. Employing a mesh screen divider can be an effective strategy. This allows for maintaining consistent water temperature and pH levels throughout the tank while preventing direct physical interaction and potential aggression between lobsters.
Witnessing a lobster shedding its old shell is a fascinating sight:
Dietary Needs: Replicating a Natural Lobster Diet
Lobster diets vary depending on the species.
In the wild, lobsters are opportunistic omnivores, consuming a diverse range of marine life, including oysters, clams, mussels, fish, and starfish. Therefore, when keeping pet lobsters, it’s important to mimic this varied diet as closely as possible. For example, spiny lobsters, a popular choice for aquariums, thrive on a combination of commercially prepared pellets and various types of seafood. Vegetation-based pellets specifically formulated for crustaceans are readily available at most pet stores.
Lifespan and Longevity: A Long-Term Commitment
The lifespan of pet lobsters in captivity is not well-documented. However, wild lobsters are known for their remarkable longevity, often living for over a century.
One famous lobster, nicknamed “George,” made headlines when he was estimated to be 140 years old and weighed 20 pounds. Due to his advanced age, he was released back into the wild after a plea from animal rights activists. This anecdote highlights the potential long lifespan of lobsters, emphasizing that taking on a pet lobster is a significant long-term commitment.
Research: The Cornerstone of Pet Lobster Ownership
Due to the significant variations among lobster species, providing universal care guidelines is challenging. However, if you are considering a pet lobster, don’t be discouraged. The key to success lies in thorough research.
Dedicate time to researching the specific species you are interested in keeping. Seek advice from individuals with firsthand experience in lobster care, such as staff at local aquariums. Invest the necessary effort to create the ideal tank environment tailored to your chosen species. By doing so, you can successfully welcome a unique and fascinating “George” of your own into your home aquarium.
