What is blueshell crab?

The blueshell crab, (Callinectes sapidus) also known as the blue crab, is a crustacean found in the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. They are named for their distinctive blue claws and the blue tint on their carapace.

Blueshell crabs are highly valued for their sweet and delicate meat. They are caught and harvested commercially for human consumption. They are also an important species for recreational fishing and trapping.

Blueshell crabs are generally small, averaging around 6 inches in width, with males being slightly larger than females. They are omnivores and feed on a variety of organisms, such as fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are also known to scavenge and can consume dead animals.

In their natural habitat, blueshell crabs are an important part of the food web, serving as prey for many larger predators. They also play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coastal ecosystems by serving as scavengers and helping to recycle nutrients back into the ecosystem.

Due to overfishing and habitat destruction, the blueshell crab population has been in decline in some areas. Conservation efforts and regulations have been put in place to help protect the remaining population.