UNE launches research initiative to decode DNA of rare multi-colored lobsters

With the donation of two, new rare-colored lobsters, the University of New England in Biddeford has launched an ambitious research project to decode the genetic basis for rare lobster coloration.

The University of New England is home to a dual-colored
lobster named Currant, left, and a one-in-a-million purple
lobster named Fig. Both rare lobsters will have their DNA
studied by the school.
PHOTOS BY DR. MARKUS FREDERICH

A lobster typically appears brown or “mottled” in appearance, though in rare cases they can come in various colors, including blue, yellow, orange, red, and even white or albino. Researchers say the precise genetic mechanisms responsible for these extraordinary variations remain largely unknown.

UNE’s Dr. Markus Frederich, a professor of marine sciences, is hoping to change that.

Frederich and his students are leading an effort to better understand the molecular basis for these lobsters’ colorful shells. The team is currently developing non-invasive methods for extracting genetic samples from the lobsters, which Frederich says may provide insight into why some lobsters diverge from their typical coloration.

“At this point, no one really knows in detail why some lobsters develop these multicolor variations, though we do have some theories,” Frederich remarked. “We hope to use this gene expression research to study the molecular biology of these creatures in a way that is not harmful to the lobsters.”

The research team doesn’t have to look far for subjects.

With its reputation for excellence in the marine sciences, UNE has become a magnet for these rare lobsters in recent years, housing an impressive lineup including orange, yellow, split-colored, and calico varieties — each with rarity ranging from 1-in-30 million to 1-in-50 million.

And now, UNE is home to another rare pair of oceanic oddities.

The first is a blue and brown split lobster, the odds of finding which are one-in-50 million. The dual-colored bottom dweller has been named Currant and was donated by Boothbay resident Eben Wilson on the FV Lettie Elise.

Joining Currant is Fig, a one-in-a-million baby purple lobster, who was caught, raised, and donated to the Arthur P. Girard Marine Science Center by UNE alum and graduate research assistant Aubrey Jane B.S. ’20 (Marine Biology).

In June 2023, UNE welcomed Peaches, a one-clawed orange lobster who became a viral sensation.

In addition to studying the DNA of the center’s full-grown lobsters, UNE undergraduates working on the project are currently tending to the eggs of an orange lobster to see how many of the offspring will be orange. They expect the eggs to hatch this spring.

“These rare lobsters appearing more and more on social media, and no one seems to know exactly why they turn these different colors,” Frederich said. “We have access to all these different lobsters, and we have students who are eager to do the research. We thought, ‘Let’s jump on this.’”

And while the researchers plan to study UNE’s resident lobsters, Frederich said he is in talks with several local lobstermen to create research partnerships that would see rare lobsters brought to UNE for study before they are released back into the wild.

Dr. Charles Tilburg, academic director of UNE’s School of Marine and Environmental Programs, said the research effort is a way for UNE to meaningfully engage with industry in support of student experiential learning.

“This is the type of project that plays to both UNE’s strengths and our goals,” Tilburg said. “Dr. Frederich and his team are performing novel, interesting research while partnering with a local industry, providing outstanding training for our students, and answering important questions in the field.” <