Edible Crab

Scientific name: Cancer pagurus

Edible crabs (also known as the Brown crab) are native to the North Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the North Atlantic. The carapace of the mature adult can reach a width of 9.8 inches (25 cm) and it can weigh up to 6.6 pounds (3 kg). The edible crab is distinguished by its characteristic “pie crust” edge and black-tipped claws. This crab is abundant in the northeast Atlantic from Norway to northern Africa. It lives in muddy and sandy shallow water to about 330 feet (100 meters) deep. It can be found living in cracks and holes in rocks and occasionally in open areas.