Lobster – Red Reef

Red Reef Lobster Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size:  20 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 12.5cm (5″)

Diet: Omnivore

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive (May attack small fish if insufficiently fed)

Lifespan: Up to 6 years

Scientific Name:  Enoplometopus Occidentalis

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes with Caution (Will attack vulnerable snails, crabs and shrimp if hungry)

The red reef lobster is one of the more common species of lobsters seen in the aquarium hobby. Its scientific name is Enoplometopus Occidentalis but it is mainly referred to by its common name, the red reef lobster. This lobster comes from the Enoplometopidae family. It’s maximum size is 5” and it can live up to 6 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. These lobsters have a minimum tank size of 20 gallons. Red reef lobsters are classified as semi-aggressive due to their predatory nature when hungry, to lessen their aggressiveness, keep them well fed. Red reef lobsters are coral safe but caution should be taken with invertebrates. Certain other delicate species of inverts and small fish 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.