Alaska's icy waters are home to some of the world's most prized seafood treasures. These pristine northern seas produce an astounding 29% of the global crab supply, making Alaska the undisputed king of commercial crab fishing. From the massive giant Alaskan king crab to the delicate snow crab, these crustaceans support both local economies and dinner tables worldwide.
The waters surrounding Alaska harbor 18 distinct crab species, though only 10 are commercially fished. Among these, seven species dominate the market and have become household names in seafood restaurants across America. Understanding the different types of Alaska crab helps consumers make informed choices and appreciate the diversity of these remarkable creatures.
This comprehensive guide reveals everything about Alaska's crab species, from identification tips to habitat preferences. You'll discover where king crab are found, learn to distinguish between species, and understand the current conservation efforts protecting these valuable marine populations. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, commercial fisherman, or simply curious about marine life, this guide provides the complete picture of crabs in Alaska today.
Complete List of Alaskan Crab Species
18 Species in Alaskan Waters
Alaska's marine ecosystem supports a remarkable diversity of crab species. While 18 species call these waters home, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game officially recognizes 10 species for commercial harvest. This rich biodiversity spans from the shallow coastal waters to the deep ocean trenches of the Bering Sea.
The variety includes everything from the massive king crabs to smaller specialty species. Each species has adapted to specific habitats and environmental conditions throughout Alaska's vast maritime territory. These adaptations have created distinct characteristics that make each species unique in appearance, behaviour, and commercial value. Understanding these cold water adaptations helps explain their distribution patterns.
Commercial vs Non-Commercial Species Breakdown
The commercial species divide into two main categories: major and minor harvest species. The seven major commercial species generate the bulk of Alaska's crab fishing revenue and include all three king crab varieties, two snow crab types, hair crab, and Dungeness crab.
| Category | Number of Species | Commercial Value |
|---|---|---|
| Major Commercial | 7 | High - Primary fisheries |
| Minor Commercial | 3 | Low - Incidental catch only |
| Non-Commercial | 8 | None - Protected or too small |
Minor commercial species like scarlet king crab, grooved Tanner, and triangle Tanner crab are typically caught incidentally. These species appear in nets targeting other crabs but aren't specifically fished due to limited populations or market demand.
Current Fishing Status and Conservation Updates 2025
The 2025 fishing season brings both challenges and hope for Alaska's crab populations. Snow crab fisheries remain closed due to concerning population declines, marking several consecutive years of closure. This unprecedented shutdown affects thousands of fishing families and highlights the urgency of conservation efforts.
Red king crab fisheries face similar restrictions in several traditional fishing grounds. However, some populations show signs of recovery, particularly in protected areas where strict harvest limits apply. The state continues monitoring population numbers through annual surveys to determine sustainable catch limits.
Golden king crab and Dungeness crab fisheries maintain relatively stable populations. These species benefit from their deeper water habitats and different life cycles, making them more resilient to environmental changes affecting their shallow-water cousins.
Major Commercial Crab Species in Alaska (The Big 7)
King Crab Varieties - Alaska's Crown Jewels
Red King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus)
Red king crab reigns supreme as Alaska's most valuable crab species. These crimson giants boast leg spans reaching up to 5 feet and weights exceeding 20 pounds, making them true monsters of the deep. Their distinctive appearance includes six prominent spines between their eyes and a burgundy coloration that turns bright red when cooked.
Where do king crabs live? Red kings inhabit the continental shelf throughout the Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Gulf of Alaska. Bristol Bay and Norton Sound historically produce the largest harvests, though populations fluctuate dramatically. These crabs prefer depths between 20-50 meters during their juvenile years before migrating to deeper waters as adults.
The commercial value of red king crab remains unmatched in the industry. Market prices average $10.71 per pound, making a single large crab worth over $200. Their sweet, tender meat and impressive presentation have earned them the nickname "Alaska's red gold." For those interested in sustainable seafood, understanding harvest practices is crucial.
Current population assessments show mixed results across different regions. While some areas report stable numbers, others remain closed to fishing due to low biomass estimates. Scientists attribute these fluctuations to changing ocean temperatures and shifts in the marine food web.
Blue King Crab (Paralithodes platypus)
Blue king crab represents the rarest of Alaska's king crab trio. These magnificent creatures display a striking blue-grey coloration and feature only four dorsal spines, making them easily distinguishable from their red cousins. Their meat is prized for its sweet flavor and extraordinarily large claw portions.
Unlike the widespread red king crab, blue kings exist in small, isolated populations. St. Matthew Island, the Pribilof Islands, and select cold-water pockets in the Gulf of Alaska harbor these elusive crabs. Their preference for extremely cold water below 43°F limits their distribution significantly. This temperature requirement makes them particularly vulnerable to ocean warming.
The limited availability drives blue king crab prices even higher than red kings. When available, these crabs command premium prices in high-end restaurants and specialty seafood markets. Their scarcity has led to strict fishing quotas and shortened seasons to protect remaining populations.
Golden King Crab (Lithodes aequispinus)
Golden king crab thrives in the deep waters along Alaska's continental slopes. These smaller cousins of red and blue kings typically weigh 3-5 pounds and display a beautiful golden-orange shell. Their identification features include 5-9 prominent spines on their carapace, varying by individual.
The Aleutian Islands chain serves as the primary habitat for golden king crab. They inhabit depths exceeding 180 meters, with some populations found as deep as 900 meters. This deep-water lifestyle makes them more challenging to harvest but also provides protection from environmental fluctuations.
Despite their smaller size, golden king crabs maintain steady commercial demand. Their mild, delicate flavor appeals to those who find red king crab too rich. The fishery remains one of Alaska's most stable, with consistent harvests supporting year-round availability.
Snow and Tanner Crabs - The Abundant Harvest
Snow Crab/Opilio (Chionoecetes opilio)
Snow crab earned its name from the pristine white meat hidden within its legs, not from its icy habitat. These crabs feature distinctive green eyes and a horizontal-shaped epistome, making field identification straightforward. Adult males typically weigh 1-2 pounds, significantly smaller than their Tanner relatives.
The northern and central Bering Sea continental shelf provides ideal snow crab habitat. They prefer soft, muddy bottoms where they can easily burrow for protection and hunt for food. Historical populations numbered in the billions, supporting massive commercial harvests throughout the 1990s and 2000s.
Unfortunately, snow crab populations have crashed dramatically in recent years. The fishery closure in 2025 marks another year without commercial harvest, devastating coastal communities dependent on this resource. Scientists study various factors including warming waters, predation, and disease as potential causes. NOAA Fisheries continues monitoring these populations closely.
Southern Tanner Crab/Bairdi (Chionoecetes bairdi)
Bairdi represents the premium option among snow crab varieties. These crabs grow larger than Opilio, reaching 3-5 pounds, and feature distinctive red eyes that contrast with their cousin's green ones. The deeper scalloping on their shell and M-shaped epistome provide reliable identification markers.
The eastern Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska support healthy Bairdi populations. Unlike Opilio, Tanner crab fisheries remain open with carefully managed quotas. They inhabit similar muddy-bottom environments but show greater resilience to environmental changes.
Many crab connoisseurs consider Bairdi the perfect balance of size, flavor, and value. The meat tastes sweeter than Opilio and fills the shells more completely. This combination of factors makes Bairdi increasingly popular as snow crab availability declines.
Dungeness Crab - The Pacific Coast Favorite
Dungeness crab brings West Coast flavor to Alaska's crab diversity. These medium-sized crabs feature fan-shaped shells reaching 6-7 inches across and distinctive purple-brown coloration. Their meat offers a delicate, slightly nutty flavor that differs markedly from their larger cousins.
From Dixon Entrance in Southeast Alaska to the eastern Aleutian Islands, Dungeness crabs thrive in diverse habitats. They inhabit everything from rocky intertidal zones to sandy bottoms at 300-meter depths. This adaptability contributes to their stable populations and consistent commercial harvests.
The Dungeness fishery operates on a different schedule than other Alaska crab seasons. Harvest typically runs from summer through winter, providing fresh crab when other species are unavailable. This timing, combined with sustainable population levels, makes Dungeness an increasingly important commercial species.
Hair Crab - The Pribilof Specialty
Hair crab remains one of Alaska's most unusual commercial species. These distinctive crabs feature hairy legs and shells, giving them their common name. Found primarily near the Pribilof Islands, they represent a unique niche in Alaska's crab fishery.
The limited geographic range restricts hair crab availability to specialty markets. Most harvest occurs as bycatch in other crab fisheries, though some targeted fishing occurs when populations allow. Their meat offers a different texture and flavor profile than mainstream species.
Minor Commercial Species (Incidental Catch)
Scarlet King Crab - The Deep Sea Dweller
Scarlet king crab inhabits the deepest waters of any Alaskan king crab species. These crimson crustaceans live at depths exceeding 600 meters, far below their golden and red relatives. Their elongated, thin legs and brilliant scarlet coloration make them unmistakable when brought to the surface.
Commercial harvest remains minimal due to the extreme depths required for fishing. Most scarlet kings appear as bycatch in golden king crab and grooved Tanner operations. When available, their reportedly sweet meat commands high prices from adventurous seafood enthusiasts.
Grooved Tanner Crab
Grooved Tanner crabs occupy the deep waters adjacent to the Aleutian Islands and Bering Sea. Their heavily ridged shells and spiny appearance distinguish them from the smoother commercial Tanner varieties. These crabs inhabit depths from 200 to 1,900 meters, making targeted fishing economically challenging.
The species appears regularly in deep-water trawl surveys but rarely in commercial quantities. Their meat quality reportedly matches other Tanner varieties, but limited availability prevents market development. Most captured specimens contribute to scientific research rather than dinner plates.
Triangle Tanner Crab
Triangle Tanner crab earned its name from distinctive triangular projections on its shell. These geometric patterns, combined with a single large spine, create an unmistakable appearance. They share deep-water habitats with grooved Tanner crabs throughout the North Pacific and Bering Sea.
Like other minor species, triangle Tanners primarily appear as incidental catch. Their depth range of 90 to 3,000 meters encompasses vast areas but low population densities. Commercial processors typically sort these crabs out rather than marketing them separately.
How to Identify Different Types of Alaska Crab?
King Crab Identification Chart
Identifying king crabs requires attention to specific physical features. The number and arrangement of dorsal spines provides the most reliable identification method. This alaskan crab species identification chart helps distinguish between the three commercial varieties at a glance.
| King Crab Species | Dorsal Spines | Shell Color | Average Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red King | 6 prominent | Dark burgundy/red | 15-20 lbs |
| Blue King | 4 prominent | Blue-grey | 10-15 lbs |
| Golden King | 5-9 variable | Golden-orange | 3-5 lbs |
Body shape and leg proportions offer additional identification clues. Red and blue kings display massive, muscular legs relative to body size. Golden kings have proportionally longer, thinner legs adapted for deep-water climbing. All king crabs share the distinctive asymmetrical abdomen tucked under their body. Understanding these anatomical features helps with accurate field identification.
Color variations can confuse identification, especially in juvenile crabs. Young red kings may appear more purple than red, while stressed blue kings can show reddish hues. Always rely on spine counts and body structure rather than color alone for accurate identification.
Snow vs Tanner Crab: Key Differences
Distinguishing between Opilio snow crab and Bairdi Tanner crab requires careful observation. Eye color provides the quickest field identification - snow crabs have green eyes while Tanners display red ones. This simple difference helps processors sort catches efficiently.
Shell characteristics offer another reliable identification method:
- Snow Crab (Opilio): Rounded lateral margins, smoother shell texture, horizontal epistome shape
- Tanner Crab (Bairdi): Deep scalloping on shell edges, rougher texture, M-shaped epistome
Size differences become apparent in commercial catches. Adult male snow crabs average 1-2 pounds, while Bairdi commonly reach 3-5 pounds. This size variation reflects their different growth rates and habitat preferences throughout Alaska's waters.
Visual Identification Guide for Fishermen
Commercial fishermen rely on quick visual cues for sorting catches efficiently. Alaskan crab legs vs snow crab legs show distinct differences - king crab legs appear thick and spiny, while snow crab legs are longer and smoother. These characteristics remain consistent even when crabs are partially damaged in nets. Proper species identification ensures compliance with fishing regulations.
Movement patterns help identify species in holding tanks. King crabs move slowly and deliberately, using their massive strength. Snow and Tanner crabs scuttle more quickly, reflecting their lighter build and different predator avoidance strategies.
Shell texture provides tactile identification in poor visibility conditions. King crabs feel rough and spiny, while snow crabs have smoother shells. Dungeness crabs feature a distinctively wide, smooth carapace that experienced fishermen recognize immediately by touch.
Where Each Crab Species Lives (Habitat and Distribution)?
Bering Sea Species List and Map
The Bering Sea supports the highest diversity of commercial crab species in Alaska. This vast ecosystem hosts distinct populations in different regions, each adapted to specific environmental conditions. The Bering Sea crab species list includes all major commercial varieties except Dungeness crab.
Northern Bering Sea shelf waters provide critical snow crab habitat. These shallow areas feature the soft sediments Opilio crabs prefer for burrowing. The cold bottom temperatures, typically below 35°F, create ideal conditions for population growth and reproduction.
Bristol Bay remains the epicenter for red king crab populations. The bay's unique oceanographic conditions, including seasonal ice coverage and nutrient-rich waters, support dense crab aggregations. Historical records show harvests exceeding 130 million pounds from this single region.
Gulf of Alaska Crab Populations
The Gulf of Alaska presents different habitat conditions than the Bering Sea. Warmer water temperatures and rocky bottom structures support distinct crab assemblages. Dungeness crab thrives here, utilizing the complex seafloor terrain for shelter and feeding.
Kodiak Island waters historically produced substantial red king crab harvests. Though populations declined from peak levels, ongoing restoration efforts show promise. The area's deep fjords and protected bays provide nursery habitat for juvenile crabs.
Southeast Alaska's inside waters harbor unique blue king crab populations. These isolated groups adapted to the region's extreme tidal fluctuations and freshwater input from glacial runoff. Limited fishing preserves these genetically distinct populations.
Depth Preferences by Species
Understanding depth preferences helps explain where is king crab found throughout Alaska. Each species evolved to exploit specific depth zones, reducing competition and maximizing survival. These preferences directly influence fishing strategies and gear deployment.
Shallow Water Species (0-200m):
- Dungeness crab: Intertidal to 200m
- Juvenile red king crab: 20-50m
- Hair crab: 20-400m
- Adult snow crab: 50-300m
Deep Water Species (200m+):
- Golden king crab: 180-900m
- Scarlet king crab: 600m+
- Grooved Tanner: 200-1,900m
- Triangle Tanner: 90-3,000m
Seasonal migrations complicate these patterns. Many species move between depths for feeding, mating, and molting. Red king crabs famously migrate from deep winter habitat to shallow spring breeding grounds, traveling dozens of miles.
Size, Weight, and Market Value Comparisons
Largest to Smallest: Alaska Crab Size Chart
Giant Alaskan king crab specimens capture imaginations worldwide, but typical commercial sizes vary considerably. Understanding size ranges helps set realistic expectations for consumers and highlights the diversity among species. Record-breaking individuals occasionally appear but don't represent commercial norms.
| Species | Average Weight | Maximum Weight | Leg Span |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red King Crab | 6-10 lbs | 28 lbs | Up to 5 feet |
| Blue King Crab | 5-8 lbs | 18 lbs | Up to 4 feet |
| Dungeness Crab | 2-3 lbs | 4 lbs | 10 inches |
| Bairdi Tanner | 3-5 lbs | 7 lbs | 3 feet |
| Golden King | 3-5 lbs | 8 lbs | 3 feet |
| Snow Crab | 1-2 lbs | 3 lbs | 2.5 feet |
Current Market Prices by Species 2025
Market values in 2025 reflect both availability and consumer demand. Limited supply drives prices higher for restricted species, while stable populations maintain consistent pricing. These wholesale prices vary significantly at retail levels.
Red king crab maintains its position as the premium product, averaging $10-15 per pound wholesale. Blue king crab, when available, commands 20-30% higher prices due to extreme scarcity. Golden king crab offers better value at $6-8 per pound.
Snow crab prices remain theoretical due to fishery closures. Historical prices ranged from $3-5 per pound, making them the most affordable option. Dungeness crab fills this gap partially, selling for $4-6 per pound in good harvest years.
Commercial Value and Demand Factors
Several factors influence commercial crab values beyond simple supply and demand. Meat-to-shell ratios significantly impact processor preferences and consumer satisfaction. King crabs offer the highest yield, with meat comprising 25-30% of total weight.
International markets, particularly Asian countries, drive demand for live crab exports. These markets pay premium prices for pristine specimens, influencing domestic availability. Holiday seasons create demand spikes that processors anticipate through frozen inventory management.
Sustainability certifications increasingly affect market values. Consumers show willingness to pay more for crabs from well-managed fisheries. This trend encourages responsible fishing practices while supporting fishing community economies.
Conservation Status and Fishing Regulations
Currently Closed Fisheries and Why
The snow crab fishery closure represents the most significant conservation action in recent Alaska history. Surveys indicate population declines exceeding 90% from historical peaks, triggering mandatory closures. Scientists investigate multiple potential causes including climate change, predation, and disease.
Several red king crab fishing areas remain closed after decades of population struggles. The Pribilof Islands closure extends over 20 years, despite intensive research and management efforts. These long-term closures highlight the challenges of rebuilding depleted crab stocks.
Bycatch concerns influence additional closures and restrictions. Bottom trawl fisheries accidentally capture juvenile crabs, potentially impacting recruitment. Gear modifications and area closures aim to reduce these unintended interactions while maintaining other fisheries.
Sustainable Fishing Practices in Alaska
Alaska pioneered sustainable crab fishing practices now copied worldwide. Size limits ensure only mature males enter the harvest, protecting breeding females and juveniles. These selective practices maintain reproductive capacity while providing commercial opportunities.
Pot limits and soak times reduce ghost fishing from lost gear. Modern pots include biodegradable escape panels that open after extended submersion. GPS tracking helps fishermen recover gear efficiently, minimizing environmental impacts.
The rationalization program transformed Alaska's crab fisheries from dangerous derbies to managed harvests. Individual fishing quotas eliminated the race for crab, improving safety and product quality. This system serves as a model for fisheries management globally.
Population Recovery Efforts
Active restoration programs combine habitat protection with fishing restrictions. Marine protected areas provide undisturbed breeding grounds for depleted populations. These sanctuaries show promising results in several regions, with increasing juvenile crab observations. The Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory studies ocean acidification effects on crab populations.
Research initiatives explore enhancement possibilities including hatchery production. While not yet commercially viable, experimental programs provide valuable life history information. Understanding larval requirements could enable future restoration efforts.
Climate adaptation strategies recognize changing ocean conditions. Managers adjust harvest strategies based on temperature trends and ecosystem indicators. This flexible approach aims to maintain resilient crab populations despite environmental uncertainty.
Invasive Species Alert: European Green Crab
European green crab poses a serious threat to Alaska's native crab populations. These aggressive invaders compete for food and habitat while preying on juvenile native crabs. Their identification requires attention to specific features distinguishing them from native species.
Key identification features include:
- Five distinct spines on each shell side
- Three bumps between the eyes
- Shell width up to 4 inches
- Variable coloration (green, brown, red, yellow)
Green crabs destroy eelgrass beds that serve as nursery habitat for Dungeness crabs. Their burrowing behavior undermines shoreline stability and disrupts commercial shellfish operations. Early detection remains critical for preventing establishment in new areas.
Report suspected European green crab sightings immediately to Alaska Department of Fish and Game at 1-877-INVASIV. Provide location details, photographs, and abundance estimates. Never transport suspected invasive species - leave them in place for official identification and removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Difference Between Alaskan King Crab Legs vs Snow Crab?
King crab legs appear thick, spiny, and shorter relative to their massive size. The meat fills the shell completely, requiring crackers or mallets to access. Each leg section contains substantial chunks of sweet, firm meat with a rich flavor.
Snow crab legs look longer, thinner, and smoother than king crab legs. The meat has a more delicate texture and milder flavor, appealing to those who find king crab too rich. Snow crab legs crack easily by hand, making them popular for casual dining.
Where Do King Crabs Live in Alaska?
King crabs inhabit different regions based on species and life stage. Red king crabs concentrate in Bristol Bay, Norton Sound, and the Gulf of Alaska. Blue king crabs live in isolated populations around St. Matthew Island and the Pribilof Islands.
Depth preferences change seasonally as crabs migrate for feeding and breeding. Winter finds adult king crabs in deep waters exceeding 200 meters. Spring breeding migrations bring them to shallow areas where larvae develop in protective nearshore habitats.
How Many Types of Crab Are Found in the Bering Sea?
The Bering Sea hosts 15 of Alaska's 18 crab species, making it the most diverse crab ecosystem in the state. This includes all commercially important species except Dungeness crab, which prefers more southern waters. The variety reflects the Bering Sea's diverse habitats from shallow shelves to deep basins.
Which Alaskan Crab Species is Most Expensive?
Blue king crab commands the highest prices when available, often exceeding $20 per pound wholesale. Their extreme rarity and exceptional meat quality drive these premium prices. Red king crab follows closely, especially for large, high-grade specimens.
Golden king crab offers the best value among king crab species. Despite excellent flavor, their smaller size and steady availability keep prices moderate. This makes golden king an excellent choice for experiencing king crab without the premium price tag.
Are There Giant Alaskan King Crabs Today?
Giant specimens still exist but appear less frequently than historically. The largest red king crabs today reach 20-25 pounds, compared to historical 30-pound monsters. Fishing pressure historically removed the largest individuals, selecting for smaller average sizes.
Protected areas and size limits help preserve large crab genetics. Some remote locations still produce exceptional specimens during research surveys. These discoveries remind us of the incredible size potential when crab populations remain unexploited.
Conclusion
Alaska's waters support an incredible diversity of crab species, from the massive red king crab to the delicate snow crab. Understanding these different types of Alaska crab helps appreciate the complexity of marine ecosystems and the challenges facing conservation efforts. Each species fills a unique ecological niche while supporting coastal communities through commercial fishing.
The current status of Alaska's crab populations reflects both successes and ongoing challenges. While some species like golden king and Dungeness crab maintain stable populations, others face unprecedented declines. The snow crab closure particularly highlights the urgency of understanding and addressing environmental changes affecting these valuable resources.
Looking forward, Alaska's crab fisheries face an uncertain but hopeful future. Continued research, adaptive management, and commitment to sustainability provide the foundation for recovery. Climate change presents new challenges, but Alaska's long history of responsible fishery management offers lessons for adapting to changing conditions.
Supporting sustainable seafood choices helps ensure future generations can enjoy Alaska's incredible crab diversity. Choose certified sustainable products, stay informed about conservation efforts, and appreciate these remarkable creatures beyond their culinary value. Together, we can help maintain healthy crab populations while supporting the communities that depend on them.
