Enoplometopus daumi

Datasheet

General Description

Enoplometopus daumi, commonly known as Daum's Reef Lobster, is a species belonging to the Enoplometopidae family. These reef lobsters are nocturnal creatures, making them more active in dim or dark lighting conditions. With a max size of 15.0cm, they are known for their attractive appearance, often found hiding among live rocks in the aquarium.

Aquarium Suitability

Daum's Reef Lobster is generally suitable for most aquariums, requiring a minimum tank size of 200 liters. They are hardy creatures that thrive in water conditions with a pH ranging from 8.1 to 8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C. However, they may pose a threat to smaller fish and shrimps due to their predatory nature, although some aquarists have successfully kept them alongside other tank mates with careful monitoring.

Care and Hardiness

Enoplometopus daumi is considered to be a hardy species that can adapt well to established aquarium environments. They require good hiding places, such as spaces between live rocks, to feel secure. Aquarists should ensure that rocks are securely placed on the substrate to prevent toppling, as these lobsters have a habit of rearranging rocks and sand.

Reef Suitability

Reef safe with caution, Daum's Reef Lobster can be kept in reef tanks, but their potential to prey on small crustaceans like shrimps warrants careful consideration. Their peaceful temperament makes them compatible with a variety of tank mates, as long as their predatory behavior is taken into account.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Daum's Reef Lobster involves providing ample hiding spaces within live rocks. Care should be taken to secure the rocks to prevent them from being knocked over as these lobsters rearrange their environment. Dim or dark lighting is ideal to encourage their natural nocturnal behavior.

Behaviour

Being nocturnal creatures, Daum's Reef Lobsters are most active during low light conditions. Their peaceful temperament allows them to coexist with other tank mates, though their predatory instincts may surface, especially towards smaller fish and crustaceans.

Feeding and Diet

These reef lobsters primarily feed on detritus in the aquarium, but they can also be offered a diet consisting of small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. Providing a varied diet is essential to ensure their nutritional needs are met in captivity.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Information on dimorphism and captive reproduction of Daum's Reef Lobster is limited and may vary among individual specimens. Further research and observations in controlled environments may provide insights into these aspects.

Habitat and Distribution

Enoplometopus daumi is native to regions in Australia, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific. They are typically found in reef habitats where they can seek shelter and scavenge for food among rocks and crevices. In the wild, their nocturnal behavior allows them to be active during the cover of darkness.