Dungeness crabs are huge crustaceans that reside on the ocean’s sandy floor. A Dungeness crab can survive both on land and in water as well. They like to dwell in saline waters and will occasionally come up to the shore to sunbathe. They also have a carapace, an exterior shell or exoskeleton that protects a Dungeness crab’s body from attacks around it. Here are some interesting facts about the Dungeness crab that will surely grab your attention:
1. What is the Dungeness crab population in the world?
The Fisheries Department American coastlines at the northwest, where these crabs are aplenty, appear optimistic about the crab population. The average crab population in the western coastlines and Central California has risen fivefold during the previous decades. Crabs have been severely overhunted in recent decades.
At the time, fishermen along the whole coast, from California to Washington, caught these crabs. Other than this, the crab population continued to grow or was stabilized for a long period.
2. Where did the Dungeness crab get its name from?
“Dungeness” comes from the English Dungeness headland, and George Vancouver presented the name in 1792. The Dungeness crab gets its name from the place where the species was first commercially fished. The Dungeness crab fishery was begun in 1848 and is famously known as the North Pacific coast’s oldest fishery for shellfish. Crabs are famous in the region of Dungeness Bay, and crabbing is a popular local pastime there.
3. What do they look like?
Dungeness crabs are purple and brown in color and hue while alive. The edible “flesh” of a Dungeness crab makes up around a quarter of its entire weight, making it one of the tastiest food options out there. Dungeness crab is a high-quality protein source containing all of the necessary amino acids while low in fat and calories. Important minerals such as zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium, and iron are also abundant. It is a great option for those who are health conscious and careful of their diets.
4. Can you catch them yourself?
According to a report by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, on the first Saturday of November, which is during recreational crab season, you have a chance to capture around 10 of these crabs, given that they are 5 ¾ inches in size (across).
Most individuals utilize crab traps to bring in their catch which makes it easier to haul them. All you have to do is make sure you haul at a public pier, the state law requirement. However, if you have a sports fishing license, you are not required to opt for a public pier haul.
Along with being delicious and high in amazing nutrients, the Dungeness crab has an interesting history behind its infamous name. Now that you know of amazing facts about the crab, we believe you’ve been equipped with all there is. Amazing for some extra knowledge. Plus, now you might want to add them to your menu or maybe even try a hand at catching them yourself; always a fun activity.