Panulirus versicolor
28cm
0-900m
1 sites
Palinuridae
Prepare to be dazzled! The Painted Spiny Lobster (Panulirus versicolor) is a true underwater spectacle, a vibrant jewel of the reef. While encounters are rare (sadly, zero dive sites report sightings), spotting one is a diver's dream. These lobsters, reaching up to 40cm, are most commonly found in Southeast Asia, the South Pacific, and around the Great Barrier Reef. They prefer benthic habitats in neritic zones, meaning you'll be searching along the seafloor in relatively shallow, coastal waters. Keep your eyes peeled in crevices and under rocky overhangs; you might just get lucky! Their striking colours and patterns make them unforgettable.
The Painted Spiny Lobster is easily identified by its incredibly colourful carapace adorned with a dazzling array of patterns. Look for a base colour ranging from blue to green, overlaid with bold markings of yellow, orange, and black. Unlike some other spiny lobsters, the Painted Spiny Lobster tends to have less prominent spines. Key identifiers are the striking contrast in colours and patterns, and the relatively smooth carapace compared to other spiny lobster species. Size can be up to 40cm.
910 sites
