Species · GBIF taxon 2226639
Snow Crab
Chionoecetes opilioAlso known as Opilio Crab, Opies, Queen Crab
Snow crabs thrive in the near-freezing depths of the northern oceans, navigating the muddy seafloor on exceptionally long, spindly legs. They undergo a terminal molt upon reaching maturity, after which they stop growing and focus their remaining years entirely on reproduction. Massive seasonal migrations bring these crustaceans together in dense aggregations, making them vital components of the subarctic marine food web.
ColdwaterDeepwaterCrustacean
Licensed reference(c) Totti, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Bivalves
- Polychaete Worms
- Brittle Stars
Predators
- Pacific Cod
- Halibut
- Bearded Seals
ThreatsOcean warming, marine heatwaves, and commercial overfishing
HabitatsSandy and muddy ocean floors at depths of 20 to 500 meters
Life span15 to 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyOregoniidae
- SpeciesChionoecetes opilio
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Equipped with strong claws that can pinch; handle with heavy gloves if necessary.
- What to notice
- Look for a flat, circular shell with tiny bumps and five pairs of long, flattened legs.
- Support conservation
- Avoid disturbing wild populations and strictly adhere to regional fishing quotas and seasonal closures.
Responsible observation
- Commercial Sourcing: Choose seafood certified by sustainable organizations to help protect vulnerable wild populations.
- Observation Depth: Spot these deep-dwellers primarily via marine research submersibles or specialized deep-sea cameras.
Competitor 
Predator David Csepp NMFS / Public Domain (NOAA) · Public Domain (NOAA)Close Relative
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