Mangrove Crab

Mangrove Crab

　　Mangrove Crab

　　Mangrove Crab, scientifically known as Scylla serrata, is a high-quality aquatic product unique to the brackish water areas around the Pearl River Estuary. The main production area of mangrove crabs is the Wai Ken Development Company in Panyu District, Guangzhou. In addition, they are also farmed in coastal towns such as Shilou, Xinken, and Wanqingsha within the district.

　　The Wai Ken Development Company is located at the southernmost tip of Panyu District, at the confluence where the four outlets of the Pearl River meet the sea, making it geographically unique. The terrain is flat, the water quality is good with minimal pollution, the salinity level is moderate, and the area is rich in aquatic resources, providing ideal natural conditions for the development of aquaculture. The company’s aquaculture covers an area of 47,700 mu, primarily using a mixed farming model of mangrove crabs and shrimp, making it the largest aquaculture base in the Guangzhou area.

　　Thanks to these superior natural conditions, the produced mangrove crabs are of excellent quality—characterized by thin shells, abundant meat, and delicious flavor—and have gained considerable recognition in the market, becoming one of the flagship agricultural products of Panyu. Based on meat quality, the crabs can be categorized into female crabs (with roe), meat crabs, and water crabs, each offering a distinct taste and all considered delicacies. Currently, the total aquaculture area for mangrove crabs in the district is 38,000 mu, with the Wai Ken Company accounting for 37,000 mu, yielding an annual total output of 2,280 tons. Mangrove crabs are available year-round, with the highest yield and best quality from September to February of the following year. Apart from being widely supplied to major cities in the Pearl River Delta, some products are also exported to places like Shanghai, where they are highly favored by consumers.