The Top Maja Spider Crabs Not Elsewhere Included (NEI) refer to various species within the genus *Maja*, most notably the Maja squinado, commonly known as the European spider crab. These crabs are characterized by their large, spiny carapace and long legs, inhabiting rocky and sandy seabeds in temperate waters. The primary fishing countries for Maja spider crabs are Spain, France, and Portugal, where they are highly valued for their delicate, sweet meat and are an important part of local seafood cuisine and export markets. The fishing industry targets these crabs using pots and traps, with landings peaking during their seasonal migrations. Spain leads in both catch volume and export, especially from the Galician coast, while France and Portugal also maintain significant fisheries, contributing to the European seafood market and supporting coastal communities.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.