Lobster – Spiny (Ornate)

Ornate Spiny Lobster Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 50cm (20”)

Diet: Omnivore

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive (May be aggressive towards inverts if hungry)

Lifespan: Up to 15 years

Scientific Name: Panulirus Ornatus

Other Common Names: Ornate Spiny Lobster, Painted Reef Lobster, Ornate Reef Lobster

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes with Caution

Approx. Purchase Size: 3-5 inches

The ornate spiny lobster is a rare predatory type of species not often seen in the hobby. Its scientific name is Panulirus Ornatus but they are often mainly called the ornate spiny lobster. They are also sometimes referred to as the painted reef lobster, or the ornate reef lobster. This lobster is a part of the Palinuridae family. Their maximum size is 20” but that size is rarely seen in the hobby, 3-5” is more common.  Ornate spiny lobsters have a lifespan of up to 15 years. Lobsters are omnivores, they prefer to eat meaty foods. They make excellent clean up crew members as they will scavenge the tank for any leftovers. Lobsters can be directly fed a piece of meaty food with tongs every day or second day. Ornate spiny lobsters have a minimum tank size of 20 gallons. Spiny lobsters are classified as semi-aggressive due to their predatory nature when hungry, to lessen their aggressiveness, keep them well fed. Spiny ornate lobsters are coral safe but caution should be taken with invertebrates. Spiny lobsters love to eat urchins and therefore should not be kept in the same tank with them. Certain other delicate species of mollusks are also at risk if the lobster is not fed adequately. Lobsters are nocturnal and prefer to roam at night and will hide during cracks and under rocks during the day.