Types Of Crab In The Bering Sea
The Bering Sea is a unique and bountiful ecosystem located between Alaska and Russia. It is home to a diverse array of marine life, including a variety of crab species. In this article, we will explore the different types of crab that can be found in the Bering Sea.
1. King Crab
King crab, also known as stone crab, is one of the most well-known crab species in the Bering Sea. There are three types of king crab found in the Bering Sea: red, blue, and golden. Red king crab is the largest and most plentiful of the three. It can grow up to 24 pounds and has a bright red shell.
King crab is highly prized for its sweet and succulent meat. It is often served steamed with drawn butter and lemon, and is a popular dish in seafood restaurants across the United States.
2. Snow Crab
Snow crab, also known as queen crab, is another popular crab species found in the Bering Sea. It has a light-colored shell and long, spindly legs. Snow crab meat is delicate and sweet, and is often used in sushi and other delicacies.
Snow crab fishing is an important industry in Alaska, and many fishermen and processing plants rely on the annual harvest to support their livelihoods.
3. Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a species found on the Pacific coast of North America, including the Bering Sea. It has a brownish-red shell and a meaty, flavorful flesh. Dungeness crab is often served boiled or steamed, and is a popular ingredient in many seafood dishes.
While not as large or abundant as king and snow crab, Dungeness crab is still an important species to fishermen in the Bering Sea.
4. Tanner Crab
Tanner crab, also known as bairdi crab, is a smaller species of crab found in the Bering Sea. It has a reddish-brown shell and a sweet, delicate flavor. Tanner crab is often used in soups and stews, and is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine.
Tanner crab fishing is a relatively small industry, but is still important to many Alaskan fishermen and processors.
5. Golden King Crab
Golden king crab, also known as brown king crab, is the smallest and least commercially important of the three king crab species found in the Bering Sea. It has a brownish shell and a sweet, delicate flavor.
While not as valuable as red or blue king crab, golden king crab is still an important part of the Bering Sea ecosystem and a popular ingredient in local cuisine.
Conclusion
The Bering Sea is home to a wide variety of crab species, each with its own unique flavor and culinary uses. From the large and succulent king crab to the delicate and sweet snow crab, these creatures play an important role in the ecosystem and in the livelihood of many Alaskan fishermen and processors.
