Full Breakdown
Rare Split-Color Lobster Caught Off Cape Cod Heads to Woods Hole Science Aquarium
4/28/2026, 9:12:15 AM
The Unusual Catch
On April 16, 2026 the fishing vessel Timothy Michael hauled a lobster off Cape Cod that was half dark brown and half bright orange from head to tail. Weighing over three pounds, the animal was identified by Wellfleet Shellfish Company as a rare anomaly and removed from market for donation.
Genetic Basis of the Split Shell
Researchers say split-color lobsters arise when fertilized, unlaid eggs fuse, leaving one embryo with two genetic sets that direct pigment on shell halves. A mutation affecting pigment-binding proteins creates the stark half-and-half coloration.
Key Players and Care
Wellfleet Shellfish Company donated the lobster to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, run by the National Marine Fisheries Service. While the aquarium is closed for renovation, the animal is in holding tanks at NOAA’s Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole. Biologist Julia Studley and COO Dan Brandt have commented.
Rarity and Size
Wellfleet Shellfish Company estimates odds of about 1 in 50 million, while scientists call the figure an approximation. At over three pounds, the lobster exceeds typical split-color specimens, which often die early from poor camouflage.
Official Statements
Wellfleet Shellfish Company said the lobster “is now with Woods Hole Science Aquarium’s animals housed in holding tanks at Marine Biological Laboratory during construction. When the aquarium reopens, the lobster will be on display, offering visitors a rare look at a natural anomaly.” The company’s post added, “Instead of heading to market, she’s heading somewhere even more special.” The aquarium confirmed the lobster will be shown after 2027 reopening.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The company cites a 1-in-50 million odds, while scientists note the figure is an approximation. The aquarium has not set a precise public-display date, and the lobster remains unnamed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Split-colorization occurs when two fertilized, unlaid eggs contact each other, causing one to absorb the other. This creates a lobster with two sets of genetic information, and the ability to store color pigments differently on either side of its shell.” — Julia Studley, Biologist
- “Lobsters with unusual coloring often don’t have the camouflage to thrive for long, so the fact that this one reached over three pounds means it’s been through a lot.” — Dan Brandt, COO
- “When something that rare comes across our docks, we see it as part of our role to share it with the broader community—Woods Hole Science Aquarium was the perfect fit for this lucky lobster.” — Dan Brandt, COO
- “We hope visitors take away just how unique this animal is, and how amazing it is to see genetics at work in a very iconic local species.” — Julia Studley, Biologist
What’s Next
The lobster will stay at NOAA’s Marine Biological Laboratory until the Woods Hole Science Aquarium reopens, projected for early 2027. It will then be displayed as an educational example of genetic variation, potentially remaining on exhibit for decades.