Common name: Slipper Lobsters
Scyllaridae, commonly known as slipper lobsters, are a family of marine crustaceans that are easily recognized by their flattened bodies and broad, shovel-like antennae. Unlike their more famous relatives, the clawed lobsters, slipper lobsters do not have large pincers. Instead, their front legs are adapted for digging and burrowing into the substrate. These lobsters are typically found in warm waters, often hiding under rocks or within crevices on coral reefs, which makes them a fascinating addition to a marine aquarium for hobbyists interested in unique and less commonly kept species.
Slipper lobsters are nocturnal creatures, emerging at night to forage for food. They primarily feed on mollusks, crustaceans, and detritus. In an aquarium setting, they should be provided with a diet that includes a variety of meaty foods such as shrimp, clams, and fish to mimic their natural feeding habits. It's important to note that they can be quite reclusive and may require specific tank setups that offer plenty of hiding spaces to mimic their natural habitat.
From a scientific perspective, slipper lobsters are of interest due to their unique biological adaptations. Their flattened bodies and reduced antennae are thought to be adaptations for a life spent mostly in hiding and burrowing. Their fossil record dates back to the Cretaceous period, highlighting their long-standing presence in marine ecosystems. For hobbyists, their unusual appearance and behaviors can provide an intriguing focal point in a well-maintained marine aquarium.
- Common name: Regal Slipper lobsterScientific name: Arctides regalis
- Common name: sculptured mitten lobsterScientific name: Parribacus antarcticus
Common name: Mediterranean Slipper LobsterScientific name: Scyllarides latus- Common name: ridged slipper lobsterScientific name: Scyllarides nodifer
- Common name: blunt locust lobsterScientific name: Scyllarides squammosus
- Common name: small European locust lobsterScientific name: Scyllarus arctus