Dungeness crab and snow crab are two popular crustaceans that differ in their habitat, life cycle, shell, legs, flavor, texture, and meat type. Discover the unique characteristics of each species to determine which one suits your taste preferences.
When it comes to crab on your plate, two heavy hitters often make a splash. ‘Two heavy hitters often make a splash.’ Dungeness crab and snow crab are staples in the fishing industry and restaurant menus alike, but what makes them so different? Let’s dive into the cold waters they call home to find out.
Habitat and Life Cycle
Dungeness crabs live in the Pacific Ocean, usually near the west coast of North America, from California to Alaska. Snow crab lives in much colder temperatures, hanging out in the northern seas of the Atlantic and Pacific, especially around Canada and the Bering Sea. These cold temperatures are key differences in their biology and taste.
Dungeness crabs (Metacarcinus magister) are a species of crab found in the coastal waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean.
They are a commercially important species, prized for their sweet and tender flesh.
Dungeness crabs are typically 5-7 inches in width and weigh up to 3 pounds.
They have a distinctive red or blue color on their underside.
The species is known for its long lifespan, with some individuals living up to 8 years in the wild.
Snow crab grows in deeper depths compared to Dungeness crabs. Because snow crabs molt to grow, they shed their shells in a process that helps them gain size. Snow crabs molt regularly in early life stages but less often in their adulthood. Dungeness crabs molt frequently, which allows them to regenerate limbs and grow rapidly. Dungeness crabs tend to be more active in warmer waters, while snow crabs lie dormant in colder habitats.
Interestingly, snow crabs outlive Dungeness crabs. That fairly significant lifespan difference — 14 to 16 years for snow crabs versus about eight to 13 for Dungeness — means Dungeness crabs tend to mature faster and reproduce sooner. Snow crabs gain size more slowly but live longer lives.
Snow crabs, also known as Chionoecetes opilio, are a species of crab found in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans.
They inhabit depths ranging from 10 to 1,500 meters.
Snow crabs have a distinctive appearance with a brown or gray shell and six walking legs.
They feed on bottom-dwelling organisms, including 'clams, mussels' , and other crustaceans.
The commercial snow crab fishery is significant, with Canada and Russia being major producers.
In the United States, snow crabs are often harvested in Alaska and Maine.
Shell and Legs
Dungeness crabs have a wide, oval body with a shell that’s typically a rusty orange or purplish-brown. They have smaller and curved legs that contrast with the snow crab’s elongated limbs. Dungeness crabs tend to grow bulkier bodies, often seen as a single crab meal choice with more body meat.
Snow crabs have long, orange or reddish-brown legs with a thinner, lighter shell. Their legs tend to be the main attraction, and they’re a standout for those who like cracking open crab legs. The main takeaway here is that snow crabs have a larger leg-to-body ratio than Dungeness crabs. These leg differences make eating snow crab more straightforward for those who prefer leg meat.
Flavor, Texture, and Meat Type
Dungeness crab meat has a slightly sweet and more delicate flavor. It’s often described as succulent meat and is ideal for dishes like crab cakes or simple preparations with melted butter. Eating Dungeness crab is a treat for those who love a milder, sweet flavor profile. The body meat is abundant and flaky.
Snow crab meat, on the other hand, is firmer and known for its mild flavor. It’s excellent for seafood platters, and its white meat is easier to extract from the legs. Leg meat, especially from snow crab legs, is a highlight for many diners.
Yield, Size, and Dining Experience
Snow crabs and Dungeness crabs have comparable weights, but snow crabs feature longer legs. Their meatier legs mean more meat per leg, while Dungeness crabs remain a top choice for body meat lovers. Dungeness crab grows larger in width, while snow crab grows longer in leg span.
Which Crab Has More Meat?
Crab meat yield varies: A Dungeness single crab can offer more meat in the shell, while snow crabs provide leg meat that’s not the body meat but still satisfying. Both provide a good and tasty crab experience.
Eating snow crab usually means cleanly pulling out long strings of meat from the legs, while eating Dungeness crab often requires more effort cracking through the shell but rewards with rich, tender meat.
Comparison and Culinary Uses
Comparing Dungeness crab and snow crab is like comparing a rich chocolate mousse to a fruit tart — both tasty choices, just different. Snow crab legs deliver more consistent, easy-to-access meat, while Dungeness crab offers a balanced mix of body and leg meat. Not the body meat fans? Snow crab might suit you better.
Crab season varies by species and location. Dungeness crab season typically runs from November through June on the West Coast, varying by region. Snow crab season varies by location but generally peaks in late winter to early spring.
Dungeness crab meat shines in crab cakes, soups, and salads. It pairs well with melted butter and herbs. Eating Dungeness crab is a hands-on experience involving body cracking and picking. Snow crab is easier for quick meals and platters; simply steam and serve.
The Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) is a species of crab that inhabits the coastal waters of the northeastern Pacific Ocean.
Native to the region, it is highly prized for its sweet and tender flesh.
The crab's name originates from Dungeness Bay in Washington State, where it was first commercially harvested.
Dungeness crabs are typically caught between October and June, with peak season occurring in December and January.
They are a popular ingredient in seafood dishes, particularly in the cuisines of California and Oregon.
If you want a meal with more delicate flavor, Dungeness is your pick. Prefer slightly sweet, firmer meat with easier access? Then snow crab is your go-to. And for those seeking indulgence, king crab offers more meat and dramatic presentation.
- howstuffworks.com | Dungeness Crab vs. Snow Crab: In the Wild and on Your Plate
