Species · GBIF taxon 2225562
Mud Crab
Scylla serrataAlso known as Giant Mud Crab, Mangrove Crab, Black Crab, Serrated Mud Crab
Giant mud crabs are powerful estuarine predators that excavate deep burrows among mangrove roots and muddy tidal flats. Armed with massive, crushing claws, they easily break open hard-shelled mollusks and defend their territory with formidable aggression. During high tide, they emerge to forage across the flooded intertidal zone, playing a vital role in cycling nutrients within coastal ecosystems.
EstuarineCrustaceanNocturnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Bivalves
- Snails
- Smaller Crabs
Predators
- Sharks
- Large Estuarine Fish
- Crocodiles
ThreatsOverfishing, destruction of mangrove habitats, and coastal water pollution
HabitatsMangrove forests, muddy estuaries, salt marshes, and sheltered tidal flats
Life span3 to 4 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyPortunidae
- SpeciesScylla serrata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Possesses exceptionally powerful claws capable of causing severe crush injuries; handle with extreme caution.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with massive, highly muscular claws designed to crush thick mollusk shells, which can easily fracture human fingers.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a broad, dark green to brown carapace with nine distinct sharp teeth on each side of the eyes.
- What to do
- Avoid handling wild individuals entirely; if necessary, professional handlers grip them firmly from the very rear of the carapace.
Responsible observation
- Observe from a distance: Watch them at low tide near mangrove roots where they excavate their deep burrows.
- Keep fingers clear: Never attempt to pick up a wild mud crab as their claws can easily break bones.
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