The University of New England (UNE) in Portland, Maine, has added a rare white lobster—often called a ghost lobster—to its marine‑science collection. The lobster, affectionately named Casper, was donated by the Maine State Aquarium and will reside at UNE’s Arthur P. Girard Marine Science Center.
Why Casper matters
White lobsters are the rarest color variation in the species, estimated to occur in only one out of every 100 million lobsters. Their scarcity makes them valuable for scientific study, especially for researchers seeking to understand the genetic mechanisms behind lobster coloration.
Ongoing research
In 2024, UNE launched a research project led by Professor Markus Frederich, a marine‑sciences faculty member. The project uses non‑invasive techniques to collect and analyze genetic material without harming the animals. By examining differences in gene expression, the team hopes to identify the molecular pathways that produce rare colors such as white, orange, blue, purple, and split‑colored patterns.
UNE already houses a diverse collection of orange, yellow, blue, purple, calico, and split‑colored lobsters. The research gained momentum after a 1‑in‑30‑million orange lobster named Peaches produced offspring displaying a wide range of colors, offering a unique opportunity to study inheritance patterns.
Student involvement
Professor Frederich emphasized that undergraduate students play a central role in the project. “Animals like Casper capture people’s attention because they are so rare and beautiful. But, for us, they also provide an amazing opportunity to ask fundamental biological questions,” he said. “What makes this research especially rewarding is that our undergraduate students are involved in every step of the process, from working with these incredible animals to analyzing their genes and helping uncover the mechanisms behind their unusual colors.”
To date, researchers have collected genetic material from juvenile lobsters and are analyzing more than 15,000 genes. The data will contribute to a broader understanding of how coloration traits are inherited and expressed in marine crustaceans.
Implications for marine science
Understanding the genetic basis of lobster coloration could have practical applications for fisheries and aquaculture, where color traits sometimes influence market value. Moreover, the project showcases how local institutions can combine cutting‑edge science with hands‑on education, reinforcing Maine’s reputation as a hub for marine research.
Casper’s presence at UNE also offers the public a tangible example of the state’s unique marine biodiversity. Visitors to the Girard Marine Science Center can observe the ghost lobster and learn about the ongoing research, fostering community interest in science and conservation.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
