Australian Spider Crabs
Residents along the South Australian coast were astonished by a striking winter event: thousands of spider crabs making their way into Kellidie Bay on the west coast of the state. This unusual sight showed these native sea creatures moving into oyster farms to molt. “In my thirty years of oyster farming here, I’ve never seen so many,” remarked Lester Marshall, an oyster farmer from Coffin Bay.
What is a Spider Crab?
Spider crabs belong to the Majidae family of decapod crustaceans. They have thick, rounded bodies and long, thin legs, and are usually slow-moving and not very active. Most spider crabs scavenge for food, particularly dead organisms.
These crabs are found widely in marine environments and are commercially fished in temperate waters, like the North Pacific. They vary in size; for example, the long-beaked spider crab in European waters has a body about 1 cm in diameter. The largest spider crab, known as the giant crab (Macrocheira kaempferi), is found in Pacific waters near Japan. It has claws that can span more than 4 meters when fully extended, making it one of the largest arthropods known.
Spider crabs have a beak-shaped head and their bodies are covered with hairs, spines, and knobby projections called tubercles. These often trap algae, sponges, and other organisms, which the crabs stick to themselves using a mucus-like secretion from their mouths.
One type of spider crab, the kelp crab (Pugettia producta), is found in seaweed along the Pacific coast from Canada to Mexico. It is small, about 1.25 cm wide and 2.5 cm long, with a green and red coloration on top and green underneath.
Another spider crab, Parthenope investigatoris, lives in the Indian Ocean and is cleverly camouflaged to resemble the coral it inhabits.
Can you eat Spider crab?
Yes, common spider crabs are edible and are consumed in various parts of the world. The meat of the spider crab is considered a delicacy in many regions and is often compared to the taste of other crab species. The meat is typically found in the legs and claws of the spider crab, and it is often sweet and flavorful.
Are Spider crabs good to eat?
Yes, spider crabs are edible. They are often harvested for their meat, which is considered flavorful and can be used in various seafood dishes.
Can you eat giant Spider crabs?
Yes, giant spider crabs, such as the Japanese spider crab (Macrocheira kaempferi), are edible. Their meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of the world, particularly in Japan, where they are often served in various dishes such as sushi, sashimi, or as part of hot pot meals. The meat is typically found in the legs and claws, and is known for its sweet and delicate flavor.
Are Spider crabs are dangerous?
Spider crabs are not dangerous to humans. They are not aggressive and do not pose a threat in terms of attacking or harming people. However, like all crustaceans, they have claws that can pinch if handled improperly or if the crab feels threatened. In some cases, their sharp spines and claws can cause minor injuries if mishandled. They are not aggressive but can pinch if mishandled. Proper handling and cooking are important to avoid any risks associated with consumption.
Are Japanese Spider crabs are dangerous?
Japanese spider crabs, like most spider crabs, are not dangerous to humans.
What do Spider crabs eat?
Spider crabs eat a variety of things like dead animals, algae, small creatures, and bits of organic matter they find in the ocean. They scavenge for food and eat whatever they come across.
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