Preliminary studies on the mariculture potential of the slipper lobster, Scyllarides nodifer

The gregarious, non-aggressive slipper lobster, Scyllarides nodifer, which commonly reaches weights of 250–300 grams, was examined for its mariculture potential. Two groups of lobsters, one predominently adult and one predominently juvenile, were held between December 1980 and February 1982. Observations were made on food preference and consumption, growth increments and behavior. Size frequency data on field populations were also gathered. Live bivalves were the preferred food. Growth from post-larvae to a 300-g animal is hypothesized to require nine to ten molts and approximately 18 months. No problems of diseases, malnutrition or water quality were encountered.