Callinectes swimcrabs, most notably represented by the blue crab (*Callinectes sapidus*), are a group of swimming crabs native to the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, but their range and commercial importance have expanded globally. These crabs are prized for their sweet, tender meat and are a staple in regional cuisines, particularly in the United States, Mexico, and several Central and South American countries. The United States, especially the Chesapeake Bay region, leads in the commercial harvest of blue crabs, with significant fisheries also present in Mexico and Venezuela. Beyond these, other countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Cuba contribute to the global catch, often grouped as "not elsewhere included" (nei) in fisheries statistics due to the variety of Callinectes species harvested. The fishery is economically vital for coastal communities, supporting thousands of jobs in harvesting, processing, and export, though it faces challenges from overfishing, habitat loss, and environmental changes.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 28,220 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.