Catching European Green Crabs

January 2, 2020

Question: Are there any regulations regarding crabbing for European green crabs in the San Francisco Bay Area? I understand that they are an invasive species but could not find any more information on whether we can keep them. I would also like to know if they are safe to eat and if they are tested for domoic acid. (Toan H.)

Answer: There are no regulations that prohibit the take of European green crabs (Carcinus maenas). They would fall under California Code of Regulations Title 14, section 29.05, which covers general invertebrates, and gear restrictions for crustaceans, section 29.80. Please note that in San Francisco Bay, invertebrates may not be taken at night, except from the shore. The daily limit for general invertebrates is 35.

That said, European green crabs are not tested for domoic acid, so it’s unknown whether they are safe to eat. The California Department of Public Health’s Marine Biotoxin Monitoring Program only tests for commercial fisheries. Since there is no commercial fishery for European green crabs, there is no testing for this species.

The California Department of Public Health’s Marine Biotoxin Monitoring Program only tests for commercial fisheries.

Hmm, don’t they check sport fishery types, too - like Rock Crabs?

I’m pretty sure I got euro crabs before 

I’m pretty sure I got euro crabs before 

Hahhaha hahha that was funny