Chinese Mitten Crab

Eriocheir sinensis

Eriocheir sinensis, the Chinese mitten crab or Shanghai hairy crab, is a medium-sized burrowing crab that is named for its furry claws, which resemble mittens. It is native to rivers, estuaries, and other coastal habitats of East Asia; from Korea in the north to Fujian in the south. It has also been introduced to Europe and North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The species features on the list of invasive alien species of Union concern. This means that the import of the species and trade in the species is forbidden in the whole of the European Union.

Scientific name

Eriocheir sinensis

Family

Varunidae