Top Spinous Spider Crab Fishing Countries

The Top Spinous Spider Crab (Maja squinado), also known as the European spider crab, is a large, spiny-shelled crustacean found primarily in the northeast Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Recognized for its long legs and distinctive spiny carapace, this species is highly valued in European seafood markets. The leading countries engaged in the commercial harvesting of the Top Spinous Spider Crab are Spain, France, and Portugal, where it is caught using pots and traps, particularly along the Atlantic coasts. The fishing industry for this species is significant in these nations, contributing to local economies and supporting traditional fishing communities. Sustainable management practices are increasingly emphasized to ensure the long-term viability of spider crab populations, given their popularity and the pressures from both commercial and artisanal fisheries.

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