Why is this lobster caught in Vendée finally going to be released back into the sea?

Pauline Masotta | 9/21/23

Caught in early September, this lobster was lucky. It's about to be released back into the sea in a no-fishing zone. Here's why.

Caught off the Vendée coast on 1ᵉʳ September 2023 by a boat from Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, this original lobster has won over the fishmongers. And for good reason: its "genetic anomaly", which occurs in only one lobster in one to two million, gives it a sublime electric blue. Far from resembling a blue lobster, more commonly known as a Breton lobster, this one has been the target of covetousness. And there's no question of letting it go to waste!

"Live a long, happy and peaceful life".

Spotted near Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-vie, the shellfish fell into the hands of Viviers de Noirmoutier. On Facebook, the fishmongers say they immediately wanted to find a solution to keep it alive. "We did our utmost to acquire this splendid blue lobster (by the way, it's a small female), to avoid it being sold for culinary purposes.We were aware of its rarity (around 1 in 1 to 2 million cases), whose color is the result of a genetic modification".

This lobster, bought for 55 euros, compared with the usual price of 25 euros, can now be released thanks to its rarity. The splendid crustacean will be able to regain its freedom in a no-fishing zone around the Ile d'Yeu, "so that it can live a long, peaceful and happy life", writes the company. Internet users have even given the lobster a name: Azur, Blue and Saphir were the most popular. "Our team, who are watching over her carefully, will celebrate her christening as it should be!" assured Viviers de Noirmoutier.

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