Zhongyang Hairy Crabs

Zhongyang Hairy Crabs

Zhongyang Hairy Crabs is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Baidang Lake Hairy Crabs are a specialty of Baidang Lake in Zhongyang County, Anqing City, Anhui Province. Renowned for their large size, bright color, delicious taste, and high quality, Zhongyang Baidang Lake Hairy Crabs are highly favored in the market and enjoy an excellent reputation both at home and abroad.

　　Baidang Lake is located in the central part of Zhongyang County, Anhui Province, about 21 kilometers southwest of the county seat. It spans several towns including JinShe, XiangPu, HuiGong, GuanQiao, and Oushan, connects to Zhuzi Lake in the west, neighbors Pogang Lake in the south, and links to Zhangjia Sai in the east, making it the largest freshwater lake in Zhongyang County. With vast waters and misty horizons blending into the sky, Baidang Lake is teeming with a wide variety of freshwater delicacies. Aside from the lotus roots, water chestnuts, gorgon fruits, wild rice stems, and reeds along the shore, the lake also boasts an abundance of Hairy Crabs, fish, wild ducks, and more.

　　Characteristics of Baidang Lake Hairy Crabs: Appearance – The back is greenish, the belly is grayish-white, with yellow hairs and golden claws. The back is covered with a hard carapace. Female adult crabs have a round abdomen (grouped navel), while male adults have a narrow triangular abdomen (pointed navel). Appendages include a pair of large claws and four pairs of walking legs. Freshness – Clear coloration, intact shell, claws, and walking legs, with agile movement. Smell – Possesses the distinct aroma typical of freshwater hairy crabs. Taste – When steamed and eaten, they are deliciously fresh without being greasy, with smooth and tender meat that is refreshing and leaves a lingering aftertaste.