Species · GBIF taxon 5178595
European Green Crab
Carcinus maenasAlso known as Shore Crab, Green Shore Crab, European Shore Crab
European green crabs are highly adaptable, aggressive shore crabs distinguished by five distinct spines on each side of their eyes and three rounded lobes between them. They are notorious global invaders, outcompeting native crabs and destroying eelgrass beds as they dig for food. Their color varies from dark green to orange or red on their undersides, often indicating how recently they have molted.
InvasiveMarineAggressive
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Soft-shell clams
- Blue mussels
- Oysters
Predators
- Gulls
- Raccoons
- Larger fish
ThreatsFew threats in invaded ranges; native populations face coastal development and pollution.
HabitatsEstuaries, salt marshes, rocky shores, and sandy intertidal zones.
Life spanUp to 5 to 7 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCarcinidae
- SpeciesCarcinus maenas
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Possesses strong claws capable of delivering a painful pinch; handle with care.
- Why it is dangerous
- Equipped with powerful, sharp claws used for crushing shells, which can deliver a painful pinch to human fingers.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for five pointed spines on the outer rim of the shell next to each eye and a shell width of up to three inches.
- What to do
- Pick up the crab from the rear of its carapace, keeping your fingers well away from the reach of its claws.
Responsible observation
- Count the spines: Identify them by counting the five distinct spines on either side of the eyes.
- Report sightings: Document and report any sightings in invaded regions to local wildlife authorities.
- Handle with care: Hold them firmly from the back of the shell to avoid their quick, sharp claws.
Competitor (c) Lisa Zhang, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Lisa Zhang · cc-by
Competitor (c) Micah Carrick, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Micah Carrick · cc-by
Close Relative
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.