Meet Neptune: The Extraordinary Blue Lobster Found Only Once in 200 Million Catches

A remarkably rare vibrant blue lobster discovered off Maine’s shore has become a captivating attraction at Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center. Named Neptune, this lobster fascinates many not just for its vivid color but because such lobsters are estimated to appear only once in 200 million catches. Highlighted by IFLScience, Neptune's discovery has sparked curiosity about lobster genetics, ocean conservation, and the striking diversity beneath the waves.

A Surprising Blue Gem in the Catch

Fisherman Brad Myslinski was in for a surprise during a typical day of fishing when he noticed a brilliant blue lobster amid the usual blends of brown and green. Its vivid color was unlike anything common casts usually hold.

Neptune’s dazzling blue shell results from a genetic mutation that causes overproduction of the blue pigment protein called crustacyanin. Typically, lobsters have a greenish-brown hue that camouflages them against rocky sea floors. When boiled, they famously turn red as crustacyanin breaks down, revealing the red pigment astaxanthin.

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In Neptune’s case, this pigment balance shifts dramatically, producing an intensely blue shell that looks almost surreal. Scientists suggest this mutation might occur roughly in 1 out of every 2 million lobsters, but the odds of actually catching one are closer to 1 in 200 million.

From Ocean Catch to Education Icon

Instead of releasing Neptune back to the ocean or selling it, Myslinski generously donated the lobster to Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center (NUMSC). Immediately, marine researchers saw the lobster’s value for teaching and scientific interest.

“I never imagined I’d witness a blue lobster firsthand,” shared Neida Villanueva, a doctoral candidate in Professor Jonathan Grabowski’s lab. Praising Myslinski’s kindness, she said, “We’re thrilled to have Neptune join our outreach and education efforts.”

Now comfortably housed in a research aquarium, Neptune serves as a vivid example for students and visitors to explore marine genetic variation. His stunning color offers an engaging gateway to conversations on sustainable fishing, marine ecosystems, and lobster biology.

Villanueva sees Neptune’s popularity as a way to highlight the importance of lobstering in New England. “It benefits the conversation around an essential regional industry,” she noted.

Introducing Neptune 🔱
Meet the newest member of our touch tank at the MSC, an incredibly rare blue lobster. The blue coloration comes from a genetic anomaly– resulting in Neptune being a one in two million lobster! 💙#Lobsters #BlueLobster #MarineBiology pic.twitter.com/YNp54E2gW9
— Ocean Genome Legacy (@oceangenome) August 12, 2025

Exploring the Biology Behind Neptune’s Hue

Neptune is more than just a colorful spectacle—he is estimated to be roughly seven years old and weighs just under two pounds. Considering lobsters can live up to a century under ideal conditions, Neptune is still only a juvenile.

This discovery adds to an intriguing collection of brightly colored lobsters found recently, including Banana, a striking yellow individual; Freckles, featuring a speckled calico pattern; and Currant, a uniquely split-color lobster with bright blue on one side. These color variations occur naturally, often from rare genetic mutations, enriching our knowledge of crustacean biology.

While Neptune is a stunning example of this phenomenon, scientists note there might be even rarer lobster types. Among these is the elusive “crystal lobster”, a translucent variant that remains the stuff of legend, never officially documented.