Guide Note

Crabs are a crustacean, typically with legs, an exoskeleton and a pair of claws. They are found throughout the world and in various sizes.

Fast Facts

1. Crabs have 5 pairs of legs
2. 1.5 million tons are eaten yearly
3. More than 4,400 types of crabs
4. Blue crab: state crustacean of Maryland

Crabs are omnivores, some of the the food they consume are algae, and other crustaceans. In general, they eat a combination of plants and animals.

Eating crab can be a messy affair. An important tool to use when eating crabs is the crab mallet, which is used to crack the shell and get to the hard to reach meat. It is recommended to eat crabs outdoors because the shells and juices of the crab tend to fly when struck by the mallet. The easiest part of the crab to eat are the legs and the claws. To get to the meat which is located in the body, it requires a bit of digging. A good point of attack is the bottom of the hard shell, and digging past the gills. A small knife is required to get the meat in the hard to reach places.