Top 10 Biggest Crabs In The World

With their distinctive sideways scuttle and a vast array of shapes and sizes, crabs are a captivating presence in the aquatic world. From the vibrant coral reefs to the shadowy depths of the ocean floor, these versatile crustaceans have adapted to a multitude of environments. 

Some of these crustaceans captivate the imagination with their astonishing dimensions, unique adaptations, and pivotal roles within their ecosystems. From the mysterious abyssal plains to the towering canopies of coconut palms, there exist a group of giant crabs that lingers around.

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With more than 6,000 species of crabs in existence around the world, these are some of the biggest crabs the world has ever seen. Here we would like to share with you the top 10 biggest crabs in the world based on their mass and the width of their upper shell.

10. Florida Stone Crab (~6 Inches)

The Florida Stone Crab (Menippe mercenaria) commands attention not only for its intriguing behavior and culinary allure but also for its huge size. Among the crustaceans found in the coastal waters of Florida and the southeastern United States, this species is one of the biggest crabs in the world.

A defining feature of the Florida Stone Crab is its robust and solidly calcified claws, which are disproportionate in size. The larger of the two claws, known as the "crusher claw," is equipped with formidable strength, capable of exerting tremendous pressure to crush the shells of mollusks and other hard-shelled prey.

Their upper shell size measures approximately 6 inches. If a crab finds itself in a dangerous situation or trapped, it can intentionally detach its claw through a process called autotomy.

9. Blue Crab (Up to 9 Inches & 0.4 Kg)

The Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus), a renowned inhabitant of the Atlantic coast of North America, captivates attention with its vibrant coloration, intricate behaviors, and noteworthy size.

While it's the smaller males that contribute to the species' vibrant name, it's the larger females that garner attention for their size and reproductive role. Female Blue Crabs can reach impressive sizes, with carapaces measuring up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) across and weighing up to 0.4 kg.

Their sideways scuttling gait and rapid swimming motions are characteristic of their species. However, it's their mating behaviors that often steal the spotlight. During the mating process, male Blue Crabs use their specialized modified swimming legs, or "swimmerets," to transfer a packet of sperm called a spermatophore to the female.

8. Opilio Crab (Up to 6.5 Inches & 1.4 Kg)

The Opilio Crab (Chionoecetes opilio), also known as the Snow Crab or Queen Crab, is a species that inhabits the cold waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans. The Opilio Crab is characterized by its spindly appearance, boasting long legs and a relatively small body, which is usually covered by a hard exoskeleton. 

The claws, while not as large as those of some other crab species, still play a vital role in capturing prey and warding off predators. While not as massive as some deep-sea crabs, it can still reach a leg span of up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) or more, making it one of the biggest crabs out there.

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On top of that, it has become a sought-after ingredient in various culinary dishes, ranging from crab legs served with melted butter to more intricate recipes that showcase its delicate flavor.

7. Dungeness Crab (Up to 10 Inches)

Named after the town of Dungeness in Washington state, where the first specimen was harvested, this crab species is easily recognizable by its robust body, distinctive paddle-shaped rear legs, and striking coloration. 

Its carapace can span up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) in width, making it one of the largest crab species found along the Pacific coast. Dungeness Crabs inhabit a range extending from Alaska down to central California, often dwelling in intertidal zones and coastal waters.

The crab's sweet and tender flesh, found primarily in its claws and body, has made it a prized ingredient in seafood cuisine. From simple preparations like steamed crab legs served with melted butter to more elaborate dishes such as crab cakes and bisques.

6. Brown Crab (Up to 10 Inches)

The Brown Crab (Cancer pagurus), also known as the Edible Crab or the Common Crab, is a notable and widespread species found along the coasts of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, from Norway to the Mediterranean Sea.

Its carapace can measure up to 10 inches (25 centimeters) across, and its strong claws are adapted for a variety of functions, including capturing prey, defense, and breaking open shells of mollusks and crustaceans.

It can be found in intertidal zones, rocky shores, and even down to depths of around 100 meters (330 feet) on the continental shelf. Commercially, the Brown Crab is important to the economies of many countries in its range.

5. Red King Crab (Up to 11 Inches & 12.7 Kg)

The Red King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus), also known simply as the King Crab, is a creature of majestic proportions and remarkable flavor that reigns over the cold waters of the North Pacific.

Originating from the northern Pacific Ocean, the Red King Crab is notable for its iconic reddish-brown exoskeleton, massive size, and elongated, spiky legs that can span over 5 feet (1.5 meters) from tip to tip. Adult individuals can weigh up to 28 pounds (12.7 kilograms) or more, making them a true giant of the crab world.

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The crab's popularity in international markets has led to a flourishing industry, although its vulnerability to overfishing has prompted management efforts to ensure its sustainability.

4. Giant Mud Crab (Up to 11 Inches & 2 Kg)

The Giant Mud Crab (Scylla serrata) is a formidable and distinctive species found in the brackish and coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, extending from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean.

With a carapace width that can exceed 11 inches (28 centimeters) and a weight that can reach up to 2 kilograms, the Giant Mud Crab truly earns its name. Its body is characterized by a robust exoskeleton, intricate patterns, and the presence of sharp spines on its legs and body, making it a visually striking creature.

In terms of behavior, the Giant Mud Crab is an opportunistic omnivore. It feeds on a varied diet that includes detritus, smaller crustaceans, mollusks, and even carrion.

3. Coconut Crab (Up to 36 Inches & 5 Kg)

The Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) is a fascinating and enigmatic species that stands as the largest terrestrial arthropod on Earth. It is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Known for their distinct reddish-brown exoskeleton and powerful claws, Coconut Crabs can grow to impressive sizes, with a leg span of up to 3 feet (1 meter) and a weight that can reach over 11 pounds (5 kilograms).

Coconut Crabs are primarily terrestrial, dwelling in coastal areas and forests. Their remarkable climbing abilities allow them to ascend trees with ease, making them proficient scavengers as well as predators. They are known to feed on fallen fruits, carrion, and other small animals that inhabit their habitat.

2. Tasmanian Giant Crab (Up to 36 Inches & 12 Kg)

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Tasmanian Giant Crab (Pseudocarcinus gigas), also known as the Giant Tasmanian Crab or Giant Southern Crab, is an extraordinary creature that inhabits the cold waters off the coast of Tasmania, Australia.

As one of the largest crab species known, the Tasmanian Giant Crab holds an impressive size that often exceeds that of other giant crab species. These crabs can have a leg span of over 3 feet (1 meter) and weigh up to 26 pounds (12 kilograms).

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Living at depths ranging from around 650 to 2,950 feet (200 to 900 meters), the Tasmanian Giant Crab resides in deep-sea environments that are less explored by humans. Their habitat consists of muddy and rocky ocean floors, where they scavenge for food.

1. Japanese Spider Crab (144 Inches & 19 Kg)

The Japanese Spider Crab (Macrocheira kaempferi) is a creature of astonishing proportions and otherworldly appearance, reigning as the largest crab in the world. Hailing from the deep and chilly waters surrounding Japan, this crab species captures attention with its elongated legs and massive size.

What immediately sets the Japanese Spider Crab apart is its remarkable leg span, which can extend up to an awe-inspiring 12 feet (3.7 meters) from claw to claw, and weighs an astonishing 42 pounds (19 kg).

These crabs inhabit depths ranging from around 160 to 2,000 feet (50 to 600 meters), where they navigate the ocean floor with a delicate grace that contrasts their enormous size. Their long, thin legs allow them to maneuver through the dark depths in search of sustenance.

Source:

• IDN Times

Also read: Top 10 Biggest Beetles In The World