SPECIES FIELD GUIDE

Mud crab

High-value crab farmed in brackish ponds, pens and individual box systems; crab fattening and soft-shell production are common models.

Mud crab

Scylla serrata

A mud crab with a broad greenish-brown carapace and large claws resting on wet sand near mangroves.

Illustrative image.

  • High-value crab farmed in brackish ponds, pens and individual box systems; crab fattening and soft-shell production are common models.
  • Requires brackish water and cannot be farmed in freshwater.
  • Cannibalistic; individual compartments or shelters improve survival.
  • Hatchery seed supply is developing; much culture still relies on wild-caught juveniles, raising sustainability questions.