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Rare Split-Colored Lobster Caught Off Cape Cod Donated to Woods Hole Aquarium

Scientists plan to use the catch to explain unusual lobster genetics to future aquarium visitors.

Overview

  • The crustacean, caught Thursday by the crew of the F/V Timothy Michael, came from waters off Cape Cod.
  • Wellfleet Shellfish Company donated the animal to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, with temporary care at Marine Biological Laboratory/NOAA in Woods Hole during renovations.
  • The aquarium plans to place the lobster on public display when it reopens after construction, with the target set for early 2027.
  • Photos show a clean split in coloration with one bright orange half and one black half.
  • Experts put the odds of a split-color lobster at about 1 in 50 million, often tied to fused embryos or genetic mosaicism, and its weight of more than three pounds suggests it survived despite weaker camouflage.