The Indo-Pacific swamp crab, scientifically known as *Scylla serrata* and commonly referred to as the mud crab, is a highly valued crustacean found in estuarine and mangrove habitats across the Indo-Pacific region. Renowned for its large size and sweet, succulent meat, the mud crab supports significant commercial and artisanal fisheries. The top countries harvesting this species include Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, India, and Bangladesh, where both wild capture and aquaculture are practiced. These nations have developed robust industries around mud crab fishing and farming, exporting live and processed crabs to international markets, particularly in East Asia where demand is high. Sustainable management and aquaculture advancements are increasingly important in these regions to address overfishing and habitat loss, ensuring the continued viability of this valuable seafood resource.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Indonesia | 11,428 |
2 | Philippines | 3,967 |
3 | Thailand | 2,839 |
4 | Malaysia | 463 |
5 | Fiji | 75 |
6 | Taiwan Province of China | 11 |
7 | Micronesia (Federated States of) | 5 |
8 | Mauritius | 2 |
8 | Papua New Guinea | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.