AN albino lobster, described as one in a million, is coming out of his shell as a new tourist attraction.
The rare crustacean was caught off the Dorset coast, but now lives at Sea Life Adventure, Southend.
Aquarium workers say visitors may have to pinch themselves at the unusual sight, but the male lobster will not be blushing at the attention.
Jennifer Vowles, from the centre, said: “I believe only one or two other albino lobsters have been found around the UK in the past 20 years or so.
“In the wild, it would be very hard for an albino animal to survive for very long as they are unable to hide and are therefore vulnerable to predators eating them.
“Other than that, they are the same as a normal lobster.”
Senior aquarist Amelie Brackin said the creature, which does not yet have a name, will be used in educational activities.
She said: “Because he is a rarity, and therefore something of an oddity, his albinism allows us to demonstrate to our visitors the rich diversity and uniqueness of the great many creatures living in our seas.
“Many people assume lobsters are red as they only see them served on a plate. They’re intrigued when they see their true colour is actually dark blue, but are even more fascinated to see a white one.”
The aquarium is asking people to come up with a name for the lobster either by contacting them on Facebook or sending a tweet to @SeaLifeAdv
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel