Just imagine encountering a crab that has a leg span of up to six feet?

Well, if you've ever enjoyed the deliciously sweet and rich taste of an Alaskan king crab, then you already have. These cold-water giants are highly sought-after, with the red king crab being the true "king" of the Alaskan waters.

10 Alaskan King Crab Facts Worth Sharing

AKC

Interested to learn more about these interesting (and tasty) decapod crustaceans? We have you covered with these ten random facts.

1. There are over 100 species of king crab

The red king crab -- the most prized of them all

Although there are around 120 different king crab species, the Alaskan fishing industry focuses on three types. As discussed, when it comes to the Alaskan king crab, fisheries seek the blue, golden, and the red king crab -- the most prized of them all.

2. They're dedicated mothers

Although king crab mothers do not raise their young, they do carry thousands of embryos for approximately a year's time. In fact, the female king crab will lay anywhere between 45,000 and 500,000 eggs each year.

3. Hatched embryos begin their own journey

Once king crab embryos hatch, they become swimming larvae. After feeding on plankton for several months, they will settle to the ocean floor and become a non-swimmer. At this time, they look like a crab but are actually smaller than a dime.

4. They molt as they develop

Some of the largest red king crabs ever found were believed to be around 30 years old

Mainly made of calcium, a king crab's shell is its skeleton. During their first few years of life, king crabs molt their shell numerous times. Reaching sexual maturity at around the age of four or five, only adult females must later molt to reproduce. Some of the largest red king crabs ever found were believed to be around 30 years old, weighing in at a whopping 24 pounds.

5. Many species view the king crab as a vicious enemy

Alaskan king crabs are mainly carnivores, feeding on snails, worms, barnacles, mussels, clams, starfish, sand dollars, sea urchins, and even other crabs. However, their diets vary based on their age and the depth in which they reside.

6. We're not the only ones that enjoy an Alaskan king crab feast

Just because they prey on the above species does not mean that they do not have natural enemies themselves. Halibut, Pacific cod, octopuses, sea otters, and even other crabs all enjoy the taste of fresh king crab just as much as we do.

7. They're travelers

Outside of mating season, king crabs are solitary creatures. Amazingly, they can "walk" up to 100 miles during their yearly migration. Relying on their long legs, they travel up to one mile each day at depths of 90 to 300 feet.

8. Their blood is blue

Since the blood of crabs contains hemocyanin, a copper-containing pigment, once oxygenated, it turns blue. In comparison, human blood contains hemoglobin which is rich in iron instead of copper. It is the hemocyanin molecules that allow these crabs to function in cold, low-pressure environments.

9. They're related to the hermit crab

Surprisingly, the red king crab is closely related to the hermit crab in regards to its genetics. Similar to the hermit crab, king crabs showcase claws of varying sizes. The right claw is typically larger because it is used to crush its food, while the smaller claw tears food apart.

10. King crabs "stack up" against predators

King crabs tend to live and travel alone. However, they have been known to form what's known as pods. As they stand on top of one another, this stacking behavior is believed to be a natural defense mechanism. In some cases, these pods may include thousands of king crabs.

There you have it, ten interesting facts to increase your crab knowledge (and most likely your appetite). Have a craving? Check out these recipes to take your next king crab experience to the next level.

Sources

http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=redkingcrab.main

http://www.alaskasealife.org/aslc_resident_species/46

https://www.afsc.noaa.gov/Education/oceanlife/crabs/red_crab.htm

Want the latest on recipes, deals and new releases? Sign up here!

Sourced Straight from Sea to Table

boat icon
Sourced through trusted experts and chosen for taste, texture and quality.
thermometer icon
Flash frozen to lock in the fresh-off-the-dock taste.
AKC truck icon
Packaged with dry ice and shipped overnight directly to your door.
plate with seafood icon
Simply thaw, prep, heat, and eat.
Something went wrong, please contact us!

Cart

Use code DOGGY20 to get 20% off
orders of $90 or more!
Subtotal: