In fact, there is not a great deal to the crab beyond its impressive claws. Unlike red King Crab, blue King Crab, or golden King Crab – all of which are native to Alaska – the Atlantic crab is not known for people eating its legs. Its meat is also described as flaky – not unlike a mix between shrimp and lobster.Īnother unique quality of the Atlantic-based crab is that its meaty, thick-shelled claws are the most desirable parts of the crustacean. The Atlantic crab is considered by many to taste sweet, which puts it in stark contrast to blue King Crabs that are native to Maryland. The taste of the stone crab is unlike other King Crabs that may come across your plate on your next evening out for dinner. Alternatively, the primary fresh crabbing season for the Alaskan King Crab is from October to January (though it can last longer depending on the region). The harvest season for the Atlantic bottom dweller is from mid-October to mid-May. The harvest seasons also differ between the two types of King Crab. While the weight of the red King Crab can sometimes reach 24 pounds, the Atlantic King Crab grows similarly to the snow crab and typically does not exceed 4 pounds (2 kilograms). Unlike Bering Sea King Crab, among which include red King Crab, the Atlantic crab does not grow to a large size. Atlantic King Crab is also found in certain areas of the Gulf of Mexico, which is generally from where stone crabs are consumed in the United States. The crab’s territory in the northeast region extends all the way down to Central America. The Atlantic bottom dweller is native to the Atlantic Ocean. One of the significant differences between the two opposite coast crustaceans is just that: they are found on opposite coasts. Harvest Season and Region of Atlantic King Crab The bottom dwelling crustacean has a pear-shaped upper shell and short sharp spines cover the King Crab’s appendages. True seafood aficionados are well-aware that the Atlantic King Crab, known also by its common name, Northern Stone Crab, occupies the northwest Atlantic. Although Alaskan King Crab dominates the minds of many seafood lovers, it is not the only crustacean in the sea.