[neilep (OP)]

Couldn't decide if this would be in chemistry or Environmental..so I stuck it here.


Dear Lobster Lovers,

Why do lobsters turn from this:


BEFORE:

lobster1.jpg (15.05 kB . 187x278 - viewed 5847 times)


to this ?

AFTER

Steamed Lobster.jpg (11.13 kB . 225x180 - viewed 4820 times)


.....after they've enjoyed a bath  or sauna at someone else's behest !

Prawns also turn colour too !..are they blushing ?

[eric l]

... or is to ho have a better contrast with the green vegetables ?

[DoctorBeaver]

It's camouflage. The lobster has checked out the area, seen no rabbits, so decided to make like a carrot.

[Bass]

Believe it or not, I know this one.  After feasting on a delicious lobster dinner the night before (for a king's ransom), I asked this question to one of the researchers while visiting the New England Aquarium in Boston- apparantly cooking destroys all the pigments except the red pigment in the exoskeleton.  While alive, the brown and green pigments are dominant.

[neilep (OP)]

... or is to ho have a better contrast with the green vegetables ?

I can see how that would work...I've always wanted to look like a  delinquent cabbage....instead my mentality does the impression !!

[neilep (OP)]

It's camouflage. The lobster has checked out the area, seen no rabbits, so decided to make like a carrot.

ahhh...so that's it.....could it be that they just like to tease scuba diving rabbits ?

[Karen W.]

Believe it or not, I know this one.  After feasting on a delicious lobster dinner the night before (for a king's ransom), I asked this question to one of the researchers while visiting the New England Aquarium in Boston- apparantly cooking destroys all the pigments except the red pigment in the exoskeleton.  While alive, the brown and green pigments are dominant.

Thats interesting I wonder what makes the red so tough that it is not destroyed also?

[neilep (OP)]

Believe it or not,I Don't believe it !! I know this one.  After feasting on a delicious lobster dinner the night before (for a king's ransom), I asked this question to one of the researchers while visiting the New England Aquarium in Boston- apparantly cooking destroys all the pigments except the red pigment in the exoskeleton.  While alive, the brown and green pigments are dominant.

I believe it now Mr Bass and THANK YOU very much for assistance in my lobster colour changing needs...it's much appreciated !