How should swimming crabs be stored to keep them longer and fresher?
If the swimming crabs are fresh, you can tie up their legs and large claws, then put them in the refrigerator compartment and cover them with a wet towel; or put them in a bucket filled with water, but be careful not to stack them, and the water must not cover the swimming crabs. If the swimming crabs have been cooked, it is recommended to finish them the same day and not leave them overnight.
Daily management of swimming crab farming:
1. Water quality management
In July, change the water once every 2—3 days; in August—September, change the water once every 1—2 days; in October, change the water once every 4—5 days. The specific amount of water changed and the interval between water changes should vary according to environmental factors such as weather and water temperature.
2. Feeding
The three-spot swimming crab (Portunus trituberculatus) is an omnivorous shellfish feeder, with fresh low-value fish, shrimp, shellfish, crabs and so on as its main bait. The daily amount of bait fed should vary according to the size of the crabs. In the early stage of farming, feed about 8% of the crabs' total body weight; in the middle stage, 12%; in the late stage, 5%. When the water temperature drops to 10~15 degrees C in autumn, the daily feeding amount should be 3% of the total body weight. Feed once in the morning and once in the evening, following the principle of feeding less in the morning and more in the evening. When the daily average water temperature is below 10 degrees C, there is no need to feed bait.
3. Pond patrol management
Patrol the pond once in the morning and once in the evening. During the patrol, carefully observe the feeding and activity of the swimming crabs, pay attention to changes in the pond water, check the condition of leftover bait in the pond, and adjust the feeding amount and water change amount in good time. Keep an eye on weather changes at all times and do a good job of preparing for flood control and typhoon prevention. Frequently check whether the gate screens and embankments are damaged or have leaks, and repair any problems as soon as they are found.
Swimming crab meat is tender and rich in protein, amino acids and various minerals. Whether cooked or pickled, it is a rare delicacy on the dining table.