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Name:

Brown Rock Crab

Romaleon antennarium (formerly Cancer antennarius)

Seasonal Availability:

Year-round

Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

4.25 inches

Flavor Profile

Brown Rock Crab has a sweet and succulent meat with a slightly nutty flavor and delicate texture. Its flavor is reminiscent of the ocean.

Our favorite ways to cook

Our preferred method for California Rock Crab is to steam them. Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and adding a steaming basket. Place the cleaned and prepared rock crabs in the basket and steam for about 10-15 minutes. The meat will turn opaque and have a sweet taste that pairs perfectly with melted butter or a zesty dipping sauce. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or added to pasta or salads, steamed California Rock Crab is a true delicacy.

Things you probably didn't know about Brown Rock Crab

Brown rock crabs are an important part of the marine ecosystem, but there's more to these crustaceans than meets the eye. Did you know that brown rock crabs can be found in shallow waters as well as depths of up to 100 feet? They also have a reputation for being aggressive towards other crabs, which may help explain why they're often sought after by fishermen. Additionally, brown rock crabs are known for their powerful claws, which can exert up to 195 pounds of force. Overall, these fascinating creatures are worth learning more about - whether you're a fisherman, a nature lover, or just someone who appreciates the wonders of the ocean.

Who's Catching

A photo of the front end of a Yellow Rock crab.

Photo by Russel Spencer

Brown Rock Crab

Photo by Russell Spencer

Related Species

Get to know the many varieties of crustaceans available locally

Brown Box Crab

Name:

Brown Box Crab

Lopholithodes foraminatus

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California King Crab

Name:

California King Crab

Paralithodes californiensis

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California Spiny Lobster

Name:

California Spiny Lobster

Panulirus interruptus

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Red Rock Crab

Name:

Red Rock Crab

Cancer productus

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Scarlet King Crab

Name:

Scarlet King Crab

Lithodes couesi

Read More about the Scarlet King Crab

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Southern Kelp Crab

Name:

Southern Kelp Crab

Taliepus nuttallii

Read More about the Southern Kelp Crab

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Spider (Sheep) Crab

Name:

Spider (Sheep) Crab

Loxorhynchus spp.

Read More about the Spider (Sheep) Crab

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Spot Prawn

Name:

Spot Prawn

Pandalus platyceros

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Yellow Rock Crab

Name:

Yellow Rock Crab

Cancer anthonyi

Read More about the Yellow Rock Crab

Click to learn more about the Yellow Rock Crab