The colorful reef lobsters, with their large claws, spiny bristles, and lobster-like appearance, are reminiscent of their edible cousins, but are much smaller animals, growing to a maximum length of only 10-12 cm (4-5 in). They are also known as soft lobsters because of their relatively thin carapace. Nocturnally active and seldom seen, reef lobsters remain hidden in dark caves and crevices during the day. Their cautious, deliberate crawling movement is usually sideways or backwards. The large, distinctive claws are held in a raised defensive position. Aquarium observations indicate these animals have good vision and a keen sense of smell. The genus Enoplometopus contains only four species, all brightly colored, which range across the Indo-Pacific region. E. debelius, distinguished by its whitish body and lavender spots, is one of the most beautiful species. The prominent pincers are pink to lavender and tipped with yellow-orange. It inhabits the reefs of Indonesia and surrounding seas.
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