Top Hair Crab Fishing Countries

The top hair crab fishing countries are primarily Japan and Russia, with some harvests also occurring in South Korea and China. The hair crab, known scientifically as *Erimacrus isenbeckii* and commonly called the horsehair crab, is a cold-water species found in the northwest Pacific, particularly around Hokkaido, the Kuril Islands, and the Sea of Okhotsk. This small, spiny crab is highly prized for its sweet, delicate meat and rich roe, making it a sought-after delicacy in Japanese cuisine. Japan is the largest consumer and processor of hair crab, with a well-developed industry that includes both wild capture and aquaculture. Russia also has a significant fishery, mainly in the Far East, exporting much of its catch to Japan and other Asian markets. Strict regulations and quotas are enforced in these countries to manage stocks and prevent overfishing, reflecting the high economic and cultural importance of the hair crab industry in the region.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.