The Furry Lobster is one of the most unique and exotic marine invertebrates available in the aquarium trade. Unlike true lobsters, the Furry Lobster belongs to the family Synaxidae, a small group of lobster-like crustaceans distinguished by their fuzzy, bristled appearance. These bristles give them a hairy look, which is both striking and unusual compared to other crustaceans.

Found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific, the Furry Lobster is an excellent conversation piece for advanced aquarists with large marine aquariums. While hardy, they do have specific requirements regarding diet, tank mates, and space.

Key Features

• Distinctive hairy or bristled body, giving a "furry" look.

• Rare and exotic, not commonly seen in home aquariums.

• Hardy once acclimated, with proper care and water quality.

• Nocturnal and secretive, adding mystery to the aquarium.

• Can live for several years in captivity with proper diet and care.

Appearance

• Body covered in fine, hair-like bristles that resemble fur.

• Typically brownish to purplish in color, helping them camouflage in rockwork.

• Smaller than true lobsters—average size ranges from 4–8 inches.

• Strong claws and legs used for scavenging and defense.

Water Conditions & Tank Setup

The Furry Lobster requires a large, stable, and well-structured saltwater tank:

• Tank Size: Minimum 100 gallons.

• Temperature: 72°F – 80°F (22°C – 27°C).

• pH Level: 8.1 – 8.4.

• Salinity: 1.022 – 1.025 specific gravity.

• Filtration: Strong filtration and protein skimmer required.

• Aquascaping: Provide rock caves, crevices, and hiding spaces. They are mostly nocturnal and spend much of the day hiding.

Behavior & Tank Mates

Furry Lobsters are generally peaceful scavengers, but caution is needed:

• Best housed in fish-only or large community marine aquariums.

• Compatible tank mates include:

  • Large Angelfish

  • Tangs

  • Groupers

  • Wrasses

• Avoid housing with aggressive crustacean-eating species (Triggerfish, Puffers, large Eels).

• Smaller fish, shrimp, and crabs may be at risk, especially at night.

Feeding Habits

These invertebrates are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on leftover food and detritus:

• Will eat meaty marine foods such as shrimp, squid, clams, and fish.

• Also consume algae and plant matter.

• Supplemental feeding with sinking pellets or frozen seafood is recommended.

• Best fed at night when they are most active.

Care & Maintenance

• Hardy if provided with a proper diet and hiding places.

• Require excellent water quality—ammonia and nitrite must always be at zero.

• Sensitive to copper-based medications (avoid in treatment tanks).

• Lifespan: 3–5 years, sometimes longer in captivity.

Why Choose the Furry Lobster?

The Furry Lobster is not just another crustacean—it’s an extraordinary, rare, and fascinating marine species that adds a touch of mystery and uniqueness to any large saltwater aquarium. With its unusual hairy appearance, nocturnal habits, and scavenging behavior, it’s sure to intrigue and impress aquarists and visitors alike.