A remarkably rare lobster, exhibiting a striking split-coloration, has been spared from becoming a meal and will instead serve as a valuable educational resource.

Discovery and Donation

This extraordinary creature, estimated to occur in only one in 50 million lobsters, was discovered on April 16th by the crew of the fishing vessel Timothy Michael while operating in Massachusetts waters. The Wellfleet Shellfish Company, recognizing its exceptional nature, decided to donate it to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium.

This donation ensures the public will have the opportunity to observe and learn from this unique specimen once the aquarium completes its ongoing renovations.

Care and Housing

Currently, the lobster is under the careful observation of scientists at both the Marine Biological Laboratory and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

The aquarium, temporarily closed for construction, has arranged temporary housing for the lobster at the Marine Biological Laboratory, alongside other marine life awaiting renovated habitats.

The Science Behind the Coloration

A Rare Genetic Phenomenon

The unusual coloration of the lobster is a result of a rare genetic phenomenon. NOAA explains that this split-colorization occurs when two fertilized eggs, still within the lobster, come into contact.

One egg merges with the other, resulting in a lobster possessing two distinct sets of genetic information. This allows the lobster to produce and store color pigments differently on each side of its shell, creating the dramatic half-and-half appearance.

This isn’t simply cosmetic; it represents a fascinating example of genetic variation and provides scientists with a unique opportunity to study coloration and genetic expression in marine life.

Commitment to Conservation and Education

The Wellfleet Shellfish Company emphasized that discoveries like this reinforce their commitment to supporting the local fishing community, protecting the ocean environment, and sharing the wonders of the marine world.

The decision to donate the lobster to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium underscores the importance of conservation and education. Rather than being harvested, this lobster will become a living exhibit, inspiring curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of marine biology.

Aquarium officials anticipate the lobster will be a particularly engaging attraction, offering a tangible example of the incredible diversity found in ocean species.