Difference Between Red King Crab And Blue King Crab
King crabs are giant crustaceans that are found in the cold waters of the northern hemisphere. There are different types of king crabs, and two of the most popular ones are the red and blue king crabs. Both of these crabs are tasty and highly sought after, but there are some key differences between the two that you need to know.
Physical Appearance
One of the most obvious differences between red and blue king crabs is their physical appearance. Red king crabs are known for their bright red color, which is why they are called "red" king crabs. They have large claws and can weigh up to 24 pounds. Blue king crabs, on the other hand, have a bluish-green shell and can weigh up to 18 pounds. They have longer and thinner legs than red king crabs.
Habitat
Red and blue king crabs have different habitats. Red king crabs are found in the waters of the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska. They prefer to live in areas with a rocky or muddy sea floor, and they can be found at depths of up to 600 feet. Blue king crabs, on the other hand, are found in the waters of the Aleutian Islands and the Pribilof Islands. They prefer to live in areas with a sandy sea floor, and they can be found at depths of up to 300 feet.
Seasonal Availability
Both red and blue king crabs are available year-round, but the seasonal availability of these crabs varies. Red king crabs are typically harvested between October and January, while blue king crabs are typically harvested between January and April. This means that if you are looking for fresh red king crabs, you are more likely to find them in the fall and winter, while fresh blue king crabs are more likely to be available in the spring.
Taste
Another important difference between red and blue king crabs is their taste. Both of these crabs are known for their sweet and succulent meat, but there are some subtle differences in taste. Red king crabs have a slightly sweeter flavor, while blue king crabs have a slightly more delicate flavor. The meat of both crabs is considered a delicacy and is highly prized by seafood lovers.
Pricing
Finally, there is a difference in pricing between red and blue king crabs. Red king crabs are generally more expensive than blue king crabs, due to their larger size and more limited availability. On average, you can expect to pay around $25 per pound for red king crab, while blue king crab typically costs around $15 per pound.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several differences between red and blue king crabs, including their physical appearance, habitat, seasonal availability, taste, and pricing. Both of these crabs are delicious and highly prized, but they have subtle differences that can influence your choice when it comes to cooking or ordering these crustaceans. Whether you prefer the sweeter flavor of red king crab or the delicate flavor of blue king crab, both of these species are sure to make a delicious addition to any seafood dish.
