Common name: slipper lobster

General information

The Painted Spiny Lobster, scientifically known as Panulirus versicolor, is a strikingly colorful crustacean that adds both beauty and intrigue to a marine aquarium. Its vibrant blue, green, and purple hues, along with its long, whip-like antennae, make it a visually appealing species. This lobster is a nocturnal creature, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night when it forages for food.

Care

Caring for a Painted Spiny Lobster requires a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places, as they can grow quite large, reaching up to 40 centimeters in length. They are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including meaty foods like fish, shrimp, and mussel, as well as some plant matter. It's important to note that they may prey on small fish and invertebrates, so tank mates should be chosen with care.

Reproduction

In the wild, Painted Spiny Lobsters migrate in large groups to spawn. In captivity, breeding is rare and challenging. They release their eggs into the water column, which then develop into planktonic larvae before settling to the bottom as juveniles.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships in the aquarium setting, Painted Spiny Lobsters do play a role in their natural habitat by contributing to the health of the reef ecosystem through their scavenging behavior.

Habitat

Panulirus versicolor is commonly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer reef environments with plenty of crevices and caves for shelter. In the wild, they can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 15 meters deep.