Chinese mitten crab

Eriochier sinensis

Chinese mitten crab

Legal Status: Unwanted Organism - MFish

Status in New Zealand: Not in New Zealand

Organism: Water snails, crabs, shellfish, starfish, and other aquatic

Pest and disease search

This pest is NOT present in New Zealand.

Any sightings call hotline, ph 0800 809 966.

General Information

The Chinese mitten crab is light brown with a body width up to 8cm. Adults have dense patches of hairs on the claws (from which the species gets its name).

The crab has a round body shape and a distinctive notch between the eyes. Its legs are twice as long as its body width.

The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is a highly invasive species that can affect human health and cause major ecological and economic damage.

Marine Pest Guide (117 KB)