A female Maryland blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) displaying its distinct triangular apron. Proper identification of female crabs is crucial for adhering to Maryland crabbing regulations and ensuring sustainable blue crab populations in the Chesapeake Bay.
An immature (adolescent) female blue crab is easily identified as having an inverted “V” or triangular shaped apron and red-tipped claws.
Sook
A mature female Maryland blue crab (Callinectes sapidus), also known as a 'sook,' identified by its rounded apron. Understanding blue crab identification is essential for following Maryland crabbing regulations and promoting sustainable crab populations in the Chesapeake Bay.
A mature (adult) female blue crab identified as having an inverted “U” or bell-shaped apron and red-tipped claws.
Jimmy
A male Maryland blue crab (Callinectes sapidus), also known as a 'jimmy,' distinguished by its narrow, T-shaped apron. Proper crab identification is essential for following Maryland crabbing regulations and ensuring sustainable blue crab populations in the Chesapeake Bay.
A mature male blue crab with a long, narrow, inverted “T” shaped apron and blue-tipped claws.
