Maryland blue crab - Callinectes sapidus

Since 2019, the blue crab, originally from the Atlantic coasts of the Americas, has been spreading rapidly in our sea. It’s a highly invasive species that reproduces quickly, swims well, and is quite aggressive toward other species. Because it easily adapts from saltwater to freshwater, it's very likely to spread also in rivers-

The name “sapidus” means “tasty” in Latin – and that’s the good news: this invader is also a culinary delicacy. In many countries, it’s long been considered a prized seafood item.

I found these specimens in the Lagoon of Grado, right near the shore. There were quite a few of them, and they were about 15–20 cm in size.

© Robert Pavšič Fotopogledi all rights reserved.