Zino, the rare blue lobster, was returned to the ocean after being discovered in a Red Lobster restaurant.
In more detail, Zino’s story began when an employee at a Red Lobster restaurant in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, noticed the unusual blue color of the lobster in a shipment. Recognizing the rarity of blue lobsters, which is estimated to occur in 1 out of every 2 million lobsters due to a genetic anomaly causing the production of a certain protein, the staff decided to contact conservationists instead of placing Zino on the menu.
The Akron Zoo partnered with Red Lobster to provide a temporary home for Zino while arrangements were made for his future. The zoo cared for Zino and educated the public about the importance of biodiversity and the special nature of blue lobsters. Eventually, it was decided that Zino should be released back into the wild to live out his natural life.
To ensure Zino’s safe return to the ocean, experts were consulted to find the most suitable habitat for his release. The team took precautions to release him in an area away from commercial lobstering activities to minimize the chance of being caught again. Zino’s release was a success, and it provided an opportunity to raise awareness about marine life conservation and the impact of human activities on ocean ecosystems.
