32 Interesting Facts about Japanese Spider Crab

Dan April 25, 2023

The Japanese spider crab (Macrocheira kaempferi) is a species of crab that is found in the waters around Japan. It is the largest arthropod in the world, with a leg span that can reach up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) and a weight of up to 44 pounds (20 kilograms). The Japanese spider crab has a brownish-red exoskeleton and a distinctive, spiky shell that helps it to blend in with its surroundings. Its legs are long and spindly, with sharp claws at the end that it uses to catch prey and defend itself from predators.

The Japanese spider crab is found in deep waters, at depths of up to 600 meters. It feeds on a variety of prey, including small fish, mollusks, and other crustaceans. It is a slow-moving creature, but it has powerful legs that allow it to move across the ocean floor with ease.

The Japanese spider crab is a prized delicacy in Japan, and is often served in high-end restaurants and sushi bars. Despite this, the species is protected by Japanese law, and commercial fishing of the crabs is strictly regulated to prevent overfishing and habitat destruction. The Japanese spider crab is a fascinating and awe-inspiring creature, and a testament to the remarkable diversity of life that can be found in our planet’s oceans.

Let’s take a look at these 32 interesting facts about Japanese spider crab to know more about this crab species.

1. The Japanese spider crab is the largest arthropod in the world.
2. They can weigh up to 44 pounds (20 kg).
3. Their leg span can reach up to 18 feet (5.5 meters).
4. They have a brownish-red exoskeleton that helps them blend in with their surroundings.
5. Japanese spider crabs have a distinctive, spiky shell.
6. They are found in deep waters, at depths of up to 600 meters.
7. Their diet includes small fish, mollusks, and other crustaceans.
8. Japanese spider crabs have powerful legs that allow them to move across the ocean floor with ease.
9. They are slow-moving creatures.
10. The crabs can live for up to 100 years.
11. Japanese spider crabs have small, rudimentary eyes that are used to detect movement.
12. They have a well-developed sense of smell.
13. Japanese spider crabs are primarily active at night.
14. They are solitary creatures.
15. The species is protected by Japanese law.
16. Commercial fishing of Japanese spider crabs is strictly regulated.
17. Japanese spider crabs are considered a delicacy in Japan.
18. They are often served in high-end restaurants and sushi bars.
19. Japanese spider crabs molt their shells as they grow.
20. Molting is a vulnerable time for the crabs, as their new exoskeleton is soft and easily damaged.
21. During molting, Japanese spider crabs will hide in crevices to protect themselves.
22. Their legs can be regenerated if they are lost.
23. Japanese spider crabs are a popular exhibit in aquariums around the world.
24. They are well-suited to aquarium life because they are slow-moving and peaceful creatures.
25. Japanese spider crabs are not aggressive toward humans.
26. They have been known to coexist peacefully with other species of crab in aquariums.
27. The largest Japanese spider crab ever recorded had a leg span of 19.7 feet (6 meters).
28. Japanese spider crabs have been known to migrate long distances in search of food.
29. They are most commonly found off the coast of Japan, but have also been spotted in other parts of the Pacific Ocean.
30. Japanese spider crabs are not commonly caught in fishing nets, as their size makes them difficult to capture.
31. They are not considered a threat to humans.
32. Japanese spider crabs are a fascinating and awe-inspiring creature, and a testament to the remarkable diversity of life that can be found in our planet’s oceans.

The Japanese spider crab is a fascinating creature that has captured the imagination of people around the world. With its enormous size, spiky shell, and powerful legs, it is a true marvel of the ocean. While they are considered a delicacy in Japan, Japanese spider crabs are also highly valued for their scientific and educational value. They are a popular exhibit in aquariums, and their unique adaptations and behaviors continue to be studied by researchers. Although they may seem intimidating at first, Japanese spider crabs are peaceful creatures that are not aggressive toward humans. Their long lifespan and slow movements make them a symbol of longevity and patience in Japanese culture. Overall, the Japanese spider crab is a fascinating and iconic species that highlights the diversity and wonder of the natural world.