Common name: red reef lobster

General information

The Western Pacific Reef Lobster, Enoplometopus occidentalis, is a strikingly colorful invertebrate that adds both beauty and intrigue to a marine aquarium. Its vibrant hues of purple, red, and orange, along with its intricate patterns, make it a visually appealing species. This lobster is nocturnal and tends to be shy, often hiding during the day in crevices or under rocks.

Care

Enoplometopus occidentalis requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock to provide hiding places and a stable environment. They are generally peaceful but may show aggression towards other small lobsters or crustaceans. It's important to provide a varied diet that includes meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, chopped fish, and squid.

Reproduction

In the home aquarium, breeding of the Western Pacific Reef Lobster is rare. In the wild, after mating, females carry the fertilized eggs under their abdomen until they hatch into planktonic larvae. These larvae go through several stages before settling to the bottom and developing into juvenile lobsters.

Habitat

Enoplometopus occidentalis is found in the tropical Western Pacific Ocean, where it inhabits coral reefs and rocky substrates. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots and can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 90 meters deep.