top of page
Eriocheir japonica
Varunidae
Japanese mitten crab
日本絨螫蟹
© Jeffery C.F. Chan
Size
Typically, 5 – 15cm (carapace length).
Identification
Large, thick, compact carapace that is dark brown-green in colour with long slender legs built for climbing. Juveniles tend to have a mottled light brown colouration throughout. Chelae are big and have hair, but this is absent in juveniles. There are some hairs on the legs as well but not as dense as Varuna yui.
Description
Catadromous species, with juveniles entering streams and large rivers to reside before returning to sea as adults. Widespread and common species. Often found above dams, waterfalls, and even being found above reservoirs, probably the best climber in Hong Kong (with Anguilla marmorata).
bottom of page