Public invited to help name one-in-two-million crustacean through community contest
June 30, 2026 – BLUE HILL, Maine — Visitors to the Shaw Institute’s Environmental Education Center have another fantastic reason to stop by: a brilliant blue lobster that is estimated to be a one-in-two-million rarity.
The two-pound male lobster is the newest resident of the Institute’s growing collection of living exhibits, offering visitors a chance to see one of nature’s rarest color variations up close while learning about the fascinating science behind it.
The lobster’s striking blue coloration is caused by a rare genetic mutation that results in an overproduction of a protein called crustacyanin, creating the vivid blue shell that makes these extraordinary animals so uncommon. By comparison, bright red lobsters occur in roughly one in 10 million, while orange and yellow lobsters are even rarer, appearing in only about one in 30 million individuals.
Now, the Shaw Institute is inviting the community to help give its newest ambassador a name.
The Institute will launch a public naming contest, to run July 1 – 31, encouraging community members to submit their best name suggestions. Five finalists will then be selected, with the public voting to determine the winning name. Community members can submit their name suggestion HERE.
“We’re always looking for new ways to spark curiosity about the incredible wildlife found right here in the Gulf of Maine,” said Dr. Charles Rolsky, Executive Director of the Shaw Institute. “A blue lobster is something most people will never have the opportunity to see in person. This beautiful animal provides an unforgettable way to connect visitors with marine biology, genetics, and the importance of protecting our coastal ecosystems. We hope our naming contest helps create an even stronger connection between our community and this incredible ambassador for ocean education.”
The blue lobster was generously provided by the Shaw Institute’s friends at Atwood Lobster Company, whose partnership helped make this unique educational opportunity possible.
The lobster joins the Institute’s expanding collection of interactive exhibits inside the Environmental Education Center, which features a Gulf of Maine touch tank, a seahorse aquarium, marine science displays, artwork, educational exhibits, and more. Together, these experiences help thousands of visitors each year discover the science, ecology, and wildlife of Maine’s coastal waters through engaging, hands-on learning.
“Every animal in our care has a story to tell, and this blue lobster is no exception,” said Mikey Vittum, Lead Aquarist at the Shaw Institute. “It’s an incredible opportunity to introduce visitors to the amazing surprises that still exist beneath the surface of the Gulf of Maine. People are immediately drawn to its vibrant color, but what keeps them engaged is learning why it’s blue and what that tells us about the natural world.”
Visitors are encouraged to stop by to meet the blue lobster, learn about the science behind its extraordinary coloration, and watch for details on how to participate in the upcoming naming contest. The Center is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Admission is currently free, but donations are welcome and needed. More details and directions are available at shawinstitute.org.
For updates on the naming contest and upcoming educational programs, visit www.shawinstitute.org or follow the Shaw Institute on social media.