Mess With The Crab You Get The Stab
Have you ever heard the expression "Mess With The Crab You Get The Stab"? It's a saying that originated in the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States and refers to the dangers of handling blue crabs, which are a popular delicacy in the area. In this article, we'll explore the history and meaning of this phrase, as well as the biology and behavior of blue crabs.
What Is "Mess With The Crab You Get The Stab"?
"Mess With The Crab You Get The Stab" is a warning to be careful when handling blue crabs, which have sharp claws that can deliver a painful pinch. The phrase is often used in the context of catching, cooking, and eating blue crabs, which are a staple of the Chesapeake Bay region. The idea is that if you don't handle the crabs properly, they will defend themselves by lashing out with their claws.
The Biology of Blue Crabs
Blue crabs are crustaceans that live along the Atlantic coast of North America, from Nova Scotia to Argentina. They are called "blue" because of their distinctive blue-green color, which fades to brown when they are cooked. Blue crabs have a hard, outer shell called a carapace that protects their internal organs. They also have two large claws, or chelae, that are used for grasping and crushing food.
Blue crabs have a complex life cycle that involves several stages, including egg, larva, juvenile, and adult. Female blue crabs can lay up to two million eggs at a time, which hatch into tiny, planktonic larvae. These larvae drift in the ocean currents for several weeks before settling in the estuaries and bays where they will spend the rest of their lives. Juvenile blue crabs bury themselves in the mud or sand to avoid predators and grow larger over time. Eventually, they become adults and begin to reproduce.
The Behavior of Blue Crabs
Blue crabs are omnivores that feed on a variety of prey, including small fish, mollusks, and other crustaceans. They are also scavengers that will eat dead animals and organic debris. Blue crabs are active during the day and night and can be found in shallow water near the shore.
Blue crabs are known for their aggressive behavior and their ability to defend themselves against predators. Their large claws are used for both offense and defense, and they can deliver a painful pinch to anyone who handles them improperly. When threatened, blue crabs will raise their claws in a defensive posture and make a hissing sound by expelling air from their gills.
Catching and Cooking Blue Crabs
Blue crabs are a popular delicacy in the Chesapeake Bay region, where they are typically caught using traps or nets. Once caught, the crabs are typically steamed or boiled and served with Old Bay seasoning, a blend of spices that is popular in the region. Eating blue crabs is a social event that often involves cracking open the shells and picking out the meat by hand.
When handling blue crabs, it's important to be careful and avoid getting pinched by their claws. The best way to do this is to hold them from the back, where the claws can't reach. Some people wear gloves or use tongs to handle the crabs, but this can make it more difficult to crack open the shells and extract the meat.
Conclusion
"Mess With The Crab You Get The Stab" is a warning to be careful when handling blue crabs, which are known for their sharp claws and ability to defend themselves. Understanding the biology and behavior of blue crabs can help you avoid getting pinched and enjoy them safely. Whether you're catching, cooking, or eating blue crabs, it's important to respect these fascinating creatures and handle them with care.