Crab, Blue Swimmer – FAO Area 71 (Indonesia, Philippines, and
Australia) Blue Swimmer Crabs grow quickly, reach sexual
maturity around age one, and live for three years. Two species
of Blue Swimmer Crabs are found in the western Pacific Ocean and
are commercially caught in several countries including
Indonesia, the Philippines, and Australia. Most of the U.S.
supply of Blue Swimmer Crab comes from Indonesia and the
Philippines. In these countries abundance levels are unknown and
management regulations are just beginning to be implemented. In
contrast, in Australia the abundance of Blue Swimmer Crab is
likely at a healthy level and the fishery is well-managed. Most
Blue Swimmer Crabs are caught will traps and bottom gillnets,
which result in moderate damage to the seafloor and significant
levels of bycatch in some areas.