Paralithodes camtschaticus

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Paralithodes camtschaticus

Paralithodes camtschaticus, commonly known as the Red King Crab, is a species of crab that is found in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. It is one of the most commercially important species of crab and is the target of a large fishery in Alaska.

Description

The Red King Crab is a large crab, with males reaching sizes of up to 28 cm in carapace width and 11 kg in weight. Females are smaller, with a maximum size of 20 cm in carapace width. The crab has a distinctive red coloration, which gives it its common name.

Distribution and habitat

The Red King Crab is found in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska, with the largest populations found around the Aleutian Islands. It is a benthic species, living at depths of up to 200 m. The crab prefers sandy or muddy substrates, where it can burrow for protection.

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Red King Crab involves several stages. Females carry the eggs for up to a year before they hatch into planktonic larvae. The larvae go through several molts before settling to the seafloor and metamorphosing into juvenile crabs. The crabs reach sexual maturity at around 5 years of age.

Fishery

The Red King Crab is the target of a large fishery in Alaska. The fishery is managed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, which sets quotas to ensure the sustainability of the crab population. The crab is also fished in Russia, where it is considered an invasive species.

Conservation

The Red King Crab is not currently considered threatened or endangered. However, overfishing and habitat degradation are potential threats to the crab population. Conservation measures include quota management and the protection of critical habitats.

See also

• Crustacean
• Fishery
• Alaska Department of Fish and Game