The Top Harbour Spidercrab (Hyas araneus), also known as the Great Spider Crab, is a large, long-legged crustacean found primarily in the cold, shallow waters of the North Atlantic and adjacent seas, including the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. This species is notable for its spiny carapace and spider-like appearance, and it is a valued catch for its sweet, delicate meat. The main countries involved in the commercial harvest of the Harbour Spidercrab are Norway, the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Iceland, where specialized fisheries target these crabs using pots and traps. In these regions, spidercrab fishing supports coastal economies and is often managed with strict regulations to ensure sustainability, given the species' slow growth and vulnerability to overfishing. The crabs are primarily sold fresh or processed for export, with growing demand in European and Asian markets.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.