If you’re like many people, you may have always assumed that all edible crabs were the same. You might be surprised to know that the sea actually offers over 4,000 different kinds of crab that are safe and tasty to eat. Here are some of the most common kinds of edible crabs you’re likely to come across at grocery stores and seafood restaurants.

4 Common Varieties of Edible Crabs

1. The Blue Crab

Blue crabs are one of the most populous species of crab found along the United States’ eastern coast. On average, this species ranges from 3.5 to 5.5 inches, and are identified by their blue coloring. However, they turn the red/pink color you’re used to seeing once they’ve been cooked.

2. The King Crab

King crabs are another popular variety of edible crab, which you may have heard referred to as an Alaskan King or Russian crab. This massive species can weigh up to 25 pounds, yet only one-fourth of it is edible meat. Once cooked, the usable leg and claw meat is quite flavorful and white in coloring with red around the edges.

3. The Rock Crab

Also known as snow crab, rock crabs are another popular variety of crab found on the eastern coast. Fisherman travel to the deep seas to catch these crabs, where they reside among the rocks. Their most defining feature is their long spider-like legs, which is why people often also call them “spider crabs”.

4. The Dungeness Crab

Lastly, the dungeness crab is a coastal native of waters from Baja, Mexico all the way to chilly Alaska. This brownish, purple crab gets its name from the site where its sweet, succulent meat was first considered a delicacy—the quaint town of Dungeness in Washington State. Only male dungeness crabs can be harvested for food, and they generally weigh up to found pounds.

Looking for a local seafood restaurant where you can indulge in a tasty crab lunch or dinner? Turn to Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Bon Secour, AL. With a reputation for providing the most delicious seafood and American classics around since 2004, this restaurant offers something the whole family will enjoy. In addition to their popular oyster bar, the seafood and steakhouse restaurant also offers weekly brunch and happy hour as well as live music. To make a reservation or ask about their on- and off-site catering services, give them a call at (251) 949-5086. You can also visit their website for a look at their full menu.