Delicious Maryland steamed blue crabs are loved by seafood lovers around the country. There is a wealth of information about these crabs that most crab lovers have no idea about. Maryland steamed blue crabs are considered a staple in Maryland and make a debut at almost every special occasion. Luckily there are options to get delicious blue crabs fully steamed and ready to eat delivered right to your front door.
Here Are the Facts
Callinectes Sapidus meaning beautiful savory swimmer are considered the most valuable stock in the Chesapeake Bay area. They are both predators and prey. There are both males and females in the species. Telling the sexes apart is important. The females of the species has claws that are red tipped (often referred to as painted fingernails). Males have a narrower abdomen (often called the Washington Monument because of its shape). Females have larger abdomens.
Some facts of interest:
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While the blue crab is often fished commercially, the population has actually increased in the last few years. In 2015 there was an estimated 101 million spawning females in the bay. In 2016 it was an estimated 194 million spawning females.
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There are strict regulations regarding the harvesting of blue crabs from the bay.
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The species in not over fished!
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“soft shell crabs” are actually hard shell blue crabs that are going through their molt. Crabs have to molt as they grow. When blue crabs start to peel they are harvested and kept in molting tanks until their “soft shell” starts to appear.
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They reach maturity in about 12 months, but aging them is very difficult because they shed the hard shells regularly.
Nutrition Facts
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Blue crabs contain 0 carbohydrates.
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They are an excellent source of B12, protein and have high mineral counts of copper and zinc.
Old Wives Tales
One of the most famous old wives tales is that shellfish in general should not be consumed in a month with an “R”. There is no indication that shellfish are not safe in months with “R” in the name. The idea was likely started to prevent shellfish from being fished and caught during the spawning months to ensure a healthy aquaculture.
Delicious Maryland Blue Crabs can be enjoyed year round, no matter where you live if you order from Harbour House Crabs! Wonderful, good for you crabs are a great treat for any occasion!
