A Complete Overview of Crab Producing Areas: Major Regions and Variety Characteristics at a Glance

Crabs are one of the important aquatic products for humans, and can be broadly divided into two major categories by habitat: freshwater crabs and marine crabs. So-called crab producing areas refer to the waters and surrounding regions where a particular crab variety is concentrated for farming or harvesting; the local water quality, water temperature and food resources directly affect the plumpness and flavor of the crab meat.

Among freshwater crabs, the Chinese mitten crab is the most representative, with the scientific name Eriocheir sinensis; traditionally, the lake producing areas of Yangcheng Lake, Taihu Lake and Gucheng Lake in Jiangsu are the most well known, while lake regions along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River in Hubei, Anhui and other areas have also developed large-scale farming. As for marine crabs, swimming crabs are mainly distributed along the coasts of the Yellow Sea, Bohai Sea and East China Sea, while mud crabs prefer warm waters and are mostly abundant along the southeastern coast.

Taiwan, China also has distinctive crab producing areas; for example, the coast of Wanli in New Taipei is known for flower crabs, three-spot crabs and stone crabs, the southwestern coast also farms mud crabs, and Miaoli has developed a Chinese mitten crab farming industry. These producing areas mostly rely on offshore fishing grounds or clean water sources, and are paired with local brands and origin labels to make it easier for consumers to identify the source.

When purchasing, pay attention to the crab's activity level, weight and shell color; live crabs with intact bound limbs and a plump abdomen are usually of better quality. The marketing seasons of different producing areas also differ slightly; freshwater crabs are mostly at their fattest in autumn, while marine crabs have their own fishing seasons depending on the variety. It is recommended to buy in accordance with the production season, so that flavor and freshness are better guaranteed.