Difference Between Blue Crab And Dungeness Crab
Crab is a delicious seafood item that is enjoyed by many people around the world. However, there are different types of crabs that have their own unique flavor and texture. Two of the most popular types of crabs that are consumed in the United States are blue crab and Dungeness crab. While they may seem similar to the untrained eye, there are significant differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the differences between blue crab and Dungeness crab.
Appearance
The first difference between the two crabs is their appearance. Blue crabs are typically smaller in size, averaging around 6 inches in width. They have a blue-green shell that is covered in spiny projections, with distinctive claws that can range in color from blue to brown. The female blue crab has a triangular-shaped apron whereas the male blue crab has a long, narrow apron.
Dungeness crabs, on the other hand, are much larger in size, averaging around 8 inches in width. They have a reddish-brown shell that is smoother than the blue crab's shell, with a distinctive set of claws that are wider and tougher. The male Dungeness crab has a narrow triangular-shaped apron whereas the female Dungeness crab has a wide, rounded apron.
Habitat and Diet
Another difference between blue crabs and Dungeness crabs is their habitat and diet. Blue crabs are commonly found in the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, as well as the Caribbean. They are also found in freshwater rivers and streams. Blue crabs have a varied diet that includes small fish, plants, and other crustaceans.
Dungeness crabs are typically found along the Pacific coast, from Alaska to California. They prefer to live in rocky areas near the shoreline and in estuaries. Dungeness crabs are omnivores and feed on a variety of items such as clams, mussels, and small fish.
Flavor and Texture
When it comes to flavor and texture, both blue crabs and Dungeness crabs have their own unique characteristics. Blue crab meat is sweet and succulent, and has a delicate texture. The meat is flakier, and the flavor is slightly briny with a hint of sweetness. Dungeness crab meat has a buttery and slightly nutty flavor, with firm and dense meat that is meaty and slightly sweet.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Dungeness crab meat has a higher oil content than blue crab meat. This makes it juicier, but it also means that it has a shorter shelf life.
Price
When it comes to pricing, Dungeness crabs are significantly more expensive than blue crabs. The cost of Dungeness crabs can range from $20 to $50 per pound, whereas blue crabs are typically sold for $2 to $3 per pound. The higher price of Dungeness crabs is due to their larger size, delicate and sweet meat, and the fact that they are typically harvested from the wild.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both blue crab and Dungeness crab are delicious seafood items, they have significant differences that make them unique. Blue crabs are smaller, have a blue-green shell, are commonly found on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, and have sweet and delicate meat. Dungeness crabs, on the other hand, are larger, have a reddish-brown shell, are commonly found on the Pacific coast of the United States, and have buttery and slightly nutty meat that is meaty and slightly sweet. Consider these differences when choosing which type of crab to eat or serve at your next seafood dinner.
