Purple Reef Lobster?

[ReefLion]

MY LFS has something they refer to as a purple reef lobster. I just glanced through D&S and did not see it, although I thought for sure something was in there about these guys.

Anyway, does anyone have information about this species. Is there more than one thing I could be referring to? It's about 3" long right now, and it looks like it could get mean. Fantastic colors, though. I would only get it if it was truly reef-compatible. That seems unlikely, but I figured I'd take a shot here. Thanks.

Tim

 

[danmhippo]

http://reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t ... ht=lobster

 

[dizzy]

Reeflion,

I have what is called the purple lobster in a 220-gallon reef tank. It has the crayfish type pinchers, and is different from the blue spiney lobster. They are very shy and usually only seen when they are out competeing with the fish for a few scraps that reach the bottom. The tank has soft corals and SPS corals. Fish include angels, tangs, damsels, mandarin, and a purplensis psuedo. To my knowledge the purple lobster has not attacked either the corals or the fish, but he is armed for battle. I think I have had the lobster for at least three years, but didn't log it.

It's a beautiful crustation that can defend itself, but don't expect to see it very often.

 

[ReefLion]

Thanks very much. Dizzy, what size is your lobster at this point? Basically I'm wondering what the maximum size is. My display tank is relatively small (40 gallons), but I have a very large sump system, including a 70 gallon rubbermaid stock tank refugium that I could eventually drop him into. Thanks again.

Tim

 

[dizzy]

Reeflion the one I have is around 3.5". The Baensch Marine Atlas shows two similar purple lobsters. Enoplometopus daumi is listed as L:11cm while E.debelius is listed L:10cm. They suggest making caves so you can see them during the day. They prefer subdued lighting and do most of there traveling at night. It says they cohabit well with fishes, but sensitive invertebrates are sometimes disturbed. Just make sure some food gets down to them.