Brown crab, Common crab
Brown crabs have a distinctive oval-shaped shell with a reddish-brown colour and large, black-tipped pincers. They typically weigh between 1–3 kg, with females often heavier due to their broader, more rounded abdomens. The white claw meat is firm and sweet, while the brown meat inside the body is softer, richer, and more intense in flavour.
Brown crabs are found along the rocky seabeds of the UK coastline, particularly in the southwest around Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. They favour depths of up to 100m and are most abundant in inshore waters with crevices and boulders. Most Cornish crab is landed at ports such as Newlyn, Padstow, and St Ives.
Sustainability Rating
Status: Brown crab stocks around Cornwall are considered healthy, but as a high-value species, they require careful management to ensure sustainability.
Best Choice: Crabs caught by pots around Cornwall. Potting is a low-impact method with minimal bycatch and negligible damage to the seabed.
Avoid: Crabs caught using methods that result in high bycatch or from areas where overfishing is a concern.
Culinary Uses
Brown crab is prized for its sweet, succulent meat and is a staple in British seafood cuisine. Ideal for dressed crab, crab sandwiches, soups, and pasta dishes. The contrasting white and brown meats allow for creative presentation and flavour combinations. Often sold live, cooked whole, or as hand-picked meat.
Best Fishing Practices
Static crab pots are the preferred method, allowing for size and species selection.
Undersized or berried (egg-carrying) females are returned to the sea, helping preserve the breeding population.
Cornish fisheries follow local bylaws on minimum landing sizes and pot limits to support long-term sustainability.
Seasonality
Available year-round, though best between April and November when crabs are in peak condition after moulting.
Supporting Local, Sustainable Seafood
Choosing Cornish brown crab supports small-scale fishermen and low-impact fishing techniques. With its rich flavour and versatility, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a premium, sustainable British shellfish while supporting coastal communities and responsible harvesting.
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