Painted Rock Lobster

The Painted Rock Lobster is a spiny lobster with long antennae and contrasting bands, commonly known as the blue spiny lobster. Its small juvenile appearance can be misleading: plan for a large, powerful adult and a substantial aquarium arranged around the lobster itself.

Build secure caves and overhangs while leaving open floor space for movement. Loose rockwork can be displaced as it explores or digs, and a protected retreat is essential during molting. Activity is often greatest after dark, although settled animals may also emerge during the day.

Feed a varied selection of marine meaty foods, such as pieces of shrimp, squid and shellfish, and remove leftovers promptly. Filtration must handle a messy, substantial feeder. This is unsuitable for a typical reef community: smaller fish and other invertebrates can become prey, and even animals it does not eat may be damaged or disturbed by its movements.