Top Southern Spider Crab Fishing Countries

The Southern Spider Crab (*Maja brachydactyla*), recognized for its long, spindly legs and spiny carapace, inhabits the temperate coastal waters of the eastern Atlantic, particularly around southern Europe and northwest Africa. This species is highly valued in the seafood industry for its delicate, sweet meat, making it a sought-after catch. The top countries engaged in Southern Spider Crab fishing are Spain, France, and Portugal, where the species is both commercially harvested and prized in local cuisine. Spain leads in production, especially along the Galician coast, where traditional pot and trap fisheries are prominent. France and Portugal also maintain significant fisheries, with catches supporting both domestic consumption and export markets. Sustainable management and seasonal closures are increasingly important in these countries to ensure the longevity of the Southern Spider Crab populations and the economic viability of the fisheries.

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