Jakarta (ANTARA) – Raising lobsters is now an increasingly popular hobby, both for decorating aquariums and as a promising business opportunity. However, before you start raising them, it is important to understand that lobsters do not only live in the sea, but some also come from freshwater.
Both have different characteristics, ranging from habitat requirements, to care, to unique appearance. So, which one is best suited as a pet at home? Take a look at the following differences between freshwater lobsters and saltwater lobsters so you can determine the best choice based on your abilities and available environment, based on information gathered from various sources.
The difference between freshwater lobsters and saltwater lobsters
1. Differences in appearance
At first glance, the shapes of freshwater lobsters and saltwater lobsters appear almost identical. Both have large claws on the front, hard shells and eight legs for movement.
The difference lies in body size. Lobsters that live in freshwater generally only reach a length of about 2 to 6 inches. Meanwhile, sea lobsters are larger, averaging about eight inches when ready to be harvested.
In fact, some types of saltwater lobsters have been known to grow to more than 20 inches. When placed side by side, differences in body size are immediately visible even though their physical structures are similar.
2. Habitat or place to live
Freshwater lobsters are generally found in aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes and ponds. This is different from saltwater lobsters that live in salty areas. However, they both love areas at the bottom of the water that contain hiding places, such as rocks, coral crevices, or thick mud.
3. Different nutritional content
Because their bodies are smaller, freshwater lobsters contain fewer calories and fat, so the price tends to be cheaper. On the other hand, lobsters have higher cholesterol levels. Even so, consuming lobster is beneficial for bone health, because it is rich in phosphorus and calcium, which play a role in maintaining bone density.
4. How to grow it
Quoting Jagadtani, Mauda Irvan Hakim of BSD Lobster Farm, South Tangerang, explained that freshwater lobsters can be grown intensively in ponds with normal freshwater conditions. On the other hand, lobsters need water with a high salt content to live and develop well.
5. Age of the lobster
Freshwater lobsters have a relatively shorter lifespan, ranging from 3 to 8 years, depending on the type. Unlike sea lobsters which can live for tens to hundreds of years.
There are even records of lobsters that can reach 140 years of age. This long-lived ability is associated with enzymes telomerase which works to repair DNA so that the aging process occurs more slowly.
So, which one is best to maintain?
If the goal is a hobby or home business, freshwater lobster is usually a more appropriate choice. The reason is that it is much easier to care for and can be grown in aquariums or small ponds. Apart from that, the maintenance costs are more affordable and the playback process is relatively fast.
Meanwhile, saltwater lobsters are suitable for those who have more facilities and skills in managing water quality, because their habitat is more complex. Even though it has a high resale value, maintenance requires special attention and more investment.
In conclusion, for beginners who want to start raising lobsters at home, freshwater lobsters are the best option because they are easier to adapt, economical and still profitable if developed as a business.
Read also: Simple guide to raising freshwater lobsters for beginners
Read also: Why do freshwater lobsters die so easily? This is the cause and prevention
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Reporter: Sean Anggiatheda Sitorus
Publisher: Alviansyah Pasaribu
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