Blue Lobster

Panulirus versicolor

Due to variations within
species, your item may not look identical to the image provided. Approximate
size range may also vary between individual specimen.

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