gazami

Gazami, or gazami crab, is a common name used for several swimming crabs in the family Portunidae, with Portunus trituberculatus being the most frequently associated species in East Asia. In Japan, the gazami crab (gazami gani) is a well-known seafood species and is widely marketed under this name.

Distribution and habitat

Gazami crabs are native to the western Pacific region and are commonly found along the coasts of Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan, and parts of Southeast Asia. They inhabit shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and brackish environments, often preferring sandy or muddy bottoms where they hunt for prey.

Biology and ecology

As swimming crabs, gazami crabs use their flattened hind legs to move through the water. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. Females carry eggs until they hatch, contributing to seasonal fluctuations in population density that influence fishing pressure.

Fisheries and cuisine

Gazami crabs are a commercially important seafood resource. They are harvested for meat that is typically prepared by boiling, steaming, or grilling and used in a range of dishes, including soups, hot pots, and other seafood preparations. In Japan, gazami crab is a seasonal favorite and also appears in markets and restaurants abroad.

Harvesting and management

Fisheries for gazami crabs are managed in several East Asian countries, with measures that may include size limits, seasonal closures, and catch quotas to sustain populations. Aquaculture and crab farming operations also contribute to supply in some regions. Conservation status varies regionally and depends on local stock assessments and management practices.