Skip to main content

Unusual crab pulled from the Chesapeake Bay

By The Associated Press

TANGIER, Va. (AP) — An unusual crab has been pulled from the Chesapeake Bay.

The blue crab has two oysters growing on either side of her head near her eyes. The crab is estimated to be about 2 years old and was found in a crab pot that belonged to the mayor of Tangier Island. The oysters are about six months old.

The Washington Post reports (http://wapo.st/2rzPKlA) there’s an explanation for why the crab got stuck with two oysters on her head. Experts say oyster larvae need something hard to attach on to and grow. Old oyster shells and reefs are perfect, but over the years their numbers have diminished.

A spokesman for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Tom Zolper, says the oyster larvae were probable “desperate” and settled on the crab.

What should be in your emergency kit

By WTOP Staff
Every home should have an emergency kit on hand for when storms and power outages occur. WTOP recommends you print it out this list ahead foul weather and power outages. Supplies to have on hand:
Read Next Story

Related News

Small Maryland beach town takes chilly plunge into 2020

Christmas tree decorations show off state pride at Maryland State House

Repairs on last-of-its-kind Bay lighthouse are underway, but funding still needed