Off the rugged coast of New England, a fisherman stumbled upon a once-in-a-lifetime catch—an incredibly rare, cotton candy-colored lobster with shimmering hues of pink and purple. This 1-in-100-million marvel, is now safely housed at a science center in New Hampshire, has captivated marine enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. But what mysterious forces of nature could have created such a stunning and unusual creature? The answer remains hidden beneath the ocean’s depths.
A Remarkable Discovery
A fisherman from Atlantic Lobster Company recently made an extraordinary catch off the New England coast. On July 24, Joseph Krame, 25, caught a rare cotton candy lobster in the waters between New Hampshire and Maine. This unique lobster is now residing at the Seacoast Science Center in Rye, New Hampshire.
The Cotton Candy Lobster’s New Home
After catching the lobster, Krame decided to donate it to the Seacoast Science Center. The center, located about 50 miles east of Concord, is known for housing rare marine creatures. The lobster is currently in quarantine, adjusting to its new environment.
What Makes It “1 in 100 Million”?
Cotton candy lobsters are incredibly rare, with only one occurring in every 100 million lobsters! This makes the discovery even more special. The name “cotton candy” comes from the lobster’s unique pink and purple coloration just like children’s favorite sugary treat.
Understanding the Unique Coloration
Lobsters can come in various colors, including orange, yellow, red, blue, and the rare cotton candy hue. This specific coloration results from genetic mutations that affect pigment interactions in the lobster’s shell. The exact cause of the cotton candy color is still unknown, but it’s thought to be linked to disrupted pigmentation processes.
Other Rare Lobsters at the Science Center
The Seacoast Science Center is home to more than one rare lobster. In addition to the cotton candy lobster, they have an orange lobster, split lobster, and several blue lobsters. Each of these lobsters exhibits unique genetic mutations that give them their distinct colors.
How Lobster Coloration Works
The typical lobster color is a mottled brown, perfect for camouflage on the ocean floor. This coloration results from the lobster’s diet, which includes red pigment called astaxanthin. When cooked, this pigment turns the lobster’s shell a bright red.
The Role of Genetics in Lobster Color
Genetic mutations in lobsters can cause different color variations by altering how the red pigment interacts with proteins in the shell. For instance, blue lobsters have a mutation that increases protein levels in the lower shell layer, which affects the color. Cotton candy lobsters have an even rarer mutation that creates their unique color.
The Influence of Diet on Lobster Color
A lobster’s diet can also affect its coloration. Lobsters that eat less astaxanthin-rich foods may display less intense color hues. However, the cotton candy lobster’s diet isn’t solely responsible for its rare coloration.
The Rarity of Brightly-Colored Lobsters
Brightly-colored lobsters, like the cotton candy variety, are rare because their vivid colors make them more visible to predators. This visibility decreases their chances of survival in the wild. As a result, these lobsters are less likely to pass on their genes, making them even rarer.
Challenges of Lobster Survival
Lobsters with bright colors face greater challenges in the wild. Their vivid hues make them more visible to predators, reducing their chances of survival. This, in turn, makes these rare lobsters even less likely to pass on their unique genes.
A Safe Haven for the Cotton Candy Lobster
The cotton candy lobster is estimated to be between 8 and 10 years old. It will live out its days safely at the Seacoast Science Center, away from predators and New England lobster bakes. The center previously acquired another cotton candy lobster in November 2021.
A Continuing Fascination
The cotton candy lobster continues to fascinate both experts and visitors alike. Its rare coloration and unique story have made it a popular attraction at the Seacoast Science Center. This remarkable lobster serves as a reminder of the ocean’s incredible diversity.
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