King crabs are impressive marine creatures, widely recognized for their substantial size. Found in cold northern waters, they are highly sought after for their delicious meat and remarkable physical characteristics. Understanding their size provides insight into their biology and the environments they inhabit.
Understanding King Crab Size
King crab size is typically measured by leg span and weight. Leg span is measured from the tip of one claw to the tip of the opposing leg, providing a comprehensive measure of their reach. Weight indicates their overall mass. King crabs can exhibit a wide range of sizes, with average weights varying from 6 to 10 pounds and leg spans sometimes reaching up to 6 feet across. These figures represent a general average across different species.
Size Variations Among King Crab Species
The term “king crab” encompasses several species, each with distinct size characteristics.
Red King Crab
The Red King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) is often considered the largest and most commercially significant species. Males of this species can reach recorded weights up to 24 pounds and leg spans extending nearly 5 feet. Females are typically smaller, with the largest recorded at 10.5 pounds. While live red king crabs appear burgundy, they turn bright red when cooked.
Blue King Crabs
Blue King Crabs (Paralithodes platypus) are another notable species, known for their substantial size, though generally not as large as the biggest red king crabs. These crabs can weigh up to 18 pounds and have a leg span of up to 6 feet from leg tip to leg tip. Live blue king crabs are brown with royal blue highlights, changing to an orange-red color when cooked. They are primarily found in the cold North Pacific waters, including the Bering Sea.
Golden King Crabs
Golden King Crabs (Lithodes aequispinus), also known as Brown King Crabs, are the smallest of the three commercially harvested king crab species. Their average weight ranges between 5 to 8 pounds, and they have a golden-colored shell. Golden king crabs inhabit deeper waters compared to red and blue king crabs, typically found at depths of 984 to 3281 feet. While smaller, they are still a valuable fishery resource.
Factors Influencing King Crab Growth
King crabs grow by a process called molting, where they shed their rigid outer shell, or exoskeleton, to allow for an increase in size. This process is essential because their shell does not expand. Juvenile crabs molt frequently in their early years, with the frequency decreasing as they mature.
Age plays a significant role in how large a king crab can become, with some individuals estimated to live up to 20-30 years. Environmental conditions also influence their growth rates and ultimate size. Food availability, for instance, directly impacts the energy resources a crab has for growth. Warmer water temperatures can accelerate growth and maturation in young crabs, though extremely high temperatures can also negatively affect them. Habitat quality, including substrate type and depth, provides suitable conditions for feeding and protection, further influencing their ability to reach larger sizes.
Record-Breaking King Crab Sizes
Exceptional king crab specimens have been recorded over the years, showcasing the upper limits of their growth potential. One of the largest Red King Crabs ever documented was caught in 1977 off the coast of Alaska. This male crab weighed 28 pounds and had a leg span of 5 feet. These record-setting individuals highlight the impressive dimensions these crustaceans can attain under optimal conditions.