I sent this question in to Cecil, but I wanted to see what information you forum folk could offer:
My friend and I are planning to buy both a live crab and lobster,
put them in a small area, and have them duel to the death. Is this
possible? Will they naturally fight? Or do they need prodding with
sticks? What conditions ought I set up to make this the most
successful duel between two fine crustaceans. ( I am most concerned
with things like the Ph of the water, salt content, etc.)
Damn, you have alot of time on your hands.
They may first need some training along the lines of “When I prod you with this stick, it means you must go fight that crab [or lobster].”
Tell the lobster that the crab has been sleeping with his mate. That should make them go right at it 
You’ll need to get them steamed.
IANAMB, however you will seldom go wrong in choosing to poke with a stick. Oh wait . . . you said prodding, not poking. I am sure a Marine Biologist will happen by shortly.
To factually answer your question (as I have actually done this with a lobster and a blue crab) You will not need to prod them to do anything. The lobster will simply grip the body of the crab and proceed to crush and eat it. Simple as that. Also, if you are setting up a tank for this purpose then buy instant ocean from the store and aerate the tank sufficiently. I did it in a bucket with real sea water when I was in my teens in Connecticut. It was fun to watch.
See, I told ya!
[Super Fan]
Are dese full sized lobsters, or are dey mini lobsters?
[/SF]
Philosopher,
Thanks a bunch!
B
don’t forget to play the smother brothers’ lovely ballad of lobster and crab love.
that really gets them going.
They’ll bicker around a little bit, but in the end the lobster only has to get a hold of the crab and it’s all over.
I wouldn’t ask Cecil. This is a question for Dr. Zoidberg.
Is the crab prepared?
Phlosphr:
I should have known that someone on this board actually tried this.
Aquaman calls winner.
I read an article (I’m not sure where) about the secret lives of lobsters - evidently the males are very aggressive and will fight ala the Black Knight until they’ve lost all their legs. Also they’re extremely stupid.
Oh yeah? Explain this then.