
Panulirus versicolor
Care LevelL Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Color Form: Blue, White
Diet: Omnivore
Reef Compatible: With Caution
Water Conditions: 72-78? F, dKH 8-12, pH
8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
Max. Size: 1' 2"
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Palinuridae
Supplements: Calcium, Iodine, Trace
Elements
Panulirus vesicolor is known by many names using a
combination of the adjectives, "blue", "spiny",
and"painted"; for instance, Painted Spiny Lobster or Spiny Blue
Lobster. The Blue Spiny Lobster or Painted Crayfish, has distinctive markings
of azure blue stripes on its legs. The carapace is greenish-blue, and the
dorsal surface is darker blue with a reticulated pattern. The tail fin is also
blue. The abdominal segments have white bands and the antennae is very long. It
lacks the large claws found on most other lobsters.
It is peaceful and multiple specimens may be kept in a
large tank. It generally will not bother other inhabitants of the aquarium,
except for sessile or other bottom dwelling animals. Live rock with multiple
crevices and hiding places would provide a good environment. It may be shy when
first introduced, but once acclimated, will be more visible.
It is capable of making a sound that is very similar to a
cicada (locust). It may perform a dance-like maneuver, whipping its long, split
white antennae as it moves about the tank.
It will eat most all
types of meaty foods that are placed in the aquarium. It is sensitive to high
levels of copper-based medications. It is extremely difficult to breed in an
aquarium