Slipper Lobster

My species/animal is an invertebrate: Slipper Lobster (Scyllaridae / Thenus sp.). It is a peaceful to semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its flattened body, shovel-like antennae, earthy orange to reddish coloration, and unique armored appearance.

Males typically have slightly larger bodies and broader antennae, while females/juveniles are smaller and often carry eggs beneath their abdomen (pleopods). They reach about 8–12 inches in length as adults and should be housed in aquariums of at least 120 gallons.

Provide a sandy substrate with plenty of live rock and hiding spots, caves, and ledges, as these lobsters are nocturnal and prefer shelter during the day. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79 °F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and ensure a secure lid, since slipper lobsters are strong and may climb out of aquariums.

Diet should consist of a variety of meaty foods including mysis shrimp, chopped shrimp, squid, clams, krill, and sinking pellets, with occasional algae or seaweed supplements. With proper care, this invertebrate makes a hardy, unusual, and fascinating addition to a large marine aquarium, though it may prey on very small inverts.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.