Aquaponic Lobster Breeding Project Kickstarted!

Last weekend, I attended a half-day training session on aquaponic lobster breeding - and it was quite the adventure! At the end of the program, I brought home a startup kit: a complete CLAW system and 30 freshwater lobsters to kick off my journey. The batch was evenly split between 15 males and 15 females.

The lobsters

Unfortunately, not all of them made it home. Six lobsters died during the journey, and some even lost their claws. I could hear cracking sounds from the container, which confirmed what Mr. Effendy, our trainer, had explained: lobsters naturally fight among themselves.

First batch of the non-survivors - All are female lobsters

I didn’t discard the dead ones, though. Since they are organic freshwater lobsters raised without chemicals, why waste them!

Fresh lobsters for supper!

Setting Up the CLAW System

During training, we learned how to assemble the system step by step. At home, I had to temporarily transfer the lobsters into smaller containers while I prepared the main tank. The initial setup looked a little rough, but it was necessary to get the water stabilized.

Initial set up for system

The filter pump and air pump had to run continuously to remove chlorine from the household tap water, which is harmful to lobsters. These creatures are extremely sensitive to their environment, and the ideal water pH should stay between 7.4 and 8.2. At first, the water looked muddy due to the hydro korrels, but after a day, it cleared up beautifully.

Temporary shelter for the surviving lobsters

Moving the Lobsters In

Once the system stabilized, I began transferring the lobsters into their new home. Sadly, five more didn’t survive overnight, and one adventurous lobster managed to escape its temporary shelter—only to be found lifeless near the doorstep.

Despite these losses, the remaining lobsters settled into the system. To complement the aquaponic setup, I also transplanted a few spinach plants. Now, I’m curious to see how they adapt and grow alongside the lobsters. Of course, I made sure to feed the lobsters too—they need their share of nourishment!

Arial view of my plants

My aquaponic system is now working and filled with life :)

Looking Ahead

Even though many lobsters didn’t survive the first night, I’m still thrilled to see the system up and running. Watching the balance between plants and lobsters unfold day by day fills me with excitement. This is just the beginning of my aquaponic journey, and hopefully the system evolves successfully!