Overview: The Large Panulirus spp., commonly known as spiny lobsters, are captivating marine invertebrates prized for their unique appearance and active nocturnal behaviour. Due to the genus-level identification, care recommendations are conservative and suitable for various Panulirus species.
Care Level: Moderate to advanced. These lobsters require stable water conditions and a mature aquarium environment.
Feeding: Omnivorous scavengers, Panulirus spp. benefit from a varied diet including meaty foods such as chopped seafood, molluscs, crustaceans, and specialised invertebrate pellets. Feeding should be done in the evening or at night to align with their natural activity patterns.
Compatibility: Generally peaceful towards fish but may prey on small invertebrates. Avoid housing with very small or slow-moving crustaceans and molluscs. Suitable for reef tanks with caution, as they may damage sessile invertebrates.
Reef Safety: With Caution. While they can coexist in reef aquaria, Panulirus spp. may feed on ornamental corals, anemones, and other invertebrates.
Tank Requirements: Minimum tank size should be at least 120 litres to provide adequate space and hiding places. Provide plenty of live rock and crevices for shelter, especially during moulting periods.
Water Parameters: Maintain stable marine conditions with temperature 24-27°C, salinity 1.023-1.025 SG, pH 8.1-8.4, and good water quality with low nitrates.
Lighting & Flow: Moderate lighting is sufficient. Moderate water flow mimicking natural reef currents is ideal.
Placement: Position rockwork to create ample hiding spots and caves. Introduce the lobster during the evening to reduce stress.
Origin & Size: Various species within the Panulirus genus are sourced from tropical and subtropical marine environments. Maximum size varies but large specimens typically reach 20-30 cm in length.
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