An extraordinary ocean discovery has spurred scientific inquiry after a lobsterman caught a yellow-hued lobster with a genetic mutation so rare, it only affects 1 in every 30 million lobsters.
Upon catching the rare crustacean, lobsterman Marley Babb donated it to the University of New England’s Marine Science Center in Biddeford.
The lobster was affectionately named “Banana,” after its striking coloration.
Researchers, including Forette and professor of Marine Sciences Markus Frederich, are now studying the specimen.
“UNE has cultivated strong connections with lobstermen and Maine DMR,” said Charles Tilburg, director of the School of Marine and Environmental Programs. “It was through those connections that Markus learned about Banana and Lindsay was able to coordinate with Marley from there.”
Now, in conjunction with Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, Hood College in Maryland, and the Maine Department of Marine Resources, scientists are studying the 1.5-pound (approx. 680-gram) lobster, as well as the reasons behind its fascinating yellow hue.
Banana will likely remain in captivity, as researchers say the yellow shell color makes it more vulnerable to predators.