Crab is a popular seafood loved by millions of people around the world. Two species of crabs widely consumed in the United States are the King and Queen crab. These species are distinctive for their large size and succulent meat, making them a favorite delicacy among seafood enthusiasts.
In this article, we will delve into the details of the King and Queen Crab, highlighting their origins, habitat, nutritional value, catch methods, and interesting facts. So let’s dive in!
King Crab:
The King Crab, also known as the Alaskan King Crab or Red King Crab, is one of the largest of its species. It can grow up to six feet in length and weigh as much as 24 pounds. These crabs are found in the cold waters of the North Pacific, particularly in Alaska’s Bering Sea.
The Red King Crab has a reddish-brown color, a spiny shell, and long, spindly claws. Its meat is sweet, succulent, and full of flavor. The King Crab is a delicacy that is served in high-end restaurants and at special events. It is particularly popular during the festive season, where it is often featured in grand seafood spreads.
Nutritional Value:
The King Crab is low in saturated fat and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood option. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Catch Methods:
The King Crab is harvested mainly through commercial fishing. The fishers use pots, traps, and cages to catch these crabs. The catch is shipped to various parts of the world, where it is distributed to seafood markets and restaurants.
Interesting Fact:
The King Crab’s scientific name is Paralithodes camtschaticus, which means “parallel sword-like gift from Kamchatka.” The Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia is where the crab was first discovered.
Queen Crab:
The Queen Crab, also known as the Snow Crab or Opilio Crab, is a species native to the waters of the North Pacific Ocean. It is a smaller crab compared to the King Crab, with a maximum length of four feet and an average weight of three pounds. The Queen Crab has a soft, delicate, and sweet meat that is creamy in texture.
The Snow Crab is so named because of its white shell, which resembles snowflakes. It has longer legs and pincers than the King Crab, making it an ideal crab to pick meat from. Its meat is low in fat, high in protein, and loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Value:
The Queen Crab is a nutritional powerhouse, containing high levels of vitamin B12, zinc, and other essential nutrients. Its meat has low levels of calories, fat, and cholesterol, making it an ideal seafood for those watching their weight.
Catch Methods:
The Queen Crab is caught mainly using traps and cages. The fishing season for the Snow Crab is relatively short, lasting from January to May. Most of the Snow Crab that is harvested is shipped to Japan, where it is considered a delicacy.
Interesting Facts:
The Snow Crab’s scientific name is Chionoecetes opilio, which means “snow dweller.” The Snow Crab is found in the colder regions of the North Pacific, where it lives in deep-sea habitats.
Conclusion:
The King and Queen Crab are two of the most popular species of crabs in the world. They are renowned for their delicious meat, rich nutritional value, and unique characteristics. These crabs are the catch of the day for seafood lovers who enjoy the finer things in life.
Whether you prefer the large and spiny King Crab or the delicate and sweet Snow Crab, these crustaceans are a sure bet for adding flavor to your dishes. So the next time you’re at a seafood restaurant or market, be sure to try one of these amazing crabs. You won’t regret it!