Crabs incorporate mineral elements from their environment, so by studying their shells, DPIRD research scientists can learn where they originate from, and how they are connected to other crab populations.
Recent studies have investigated the relationship between two metropolitan populations, which suggested they migrate from the Swan-Canning Estuary out to Cockburn Sound.
Blue swimmer crabs live in WA estuaries and embayments from Esperance to Augusta, and north to Karratha. Understanding their migration patterns will lead to better monitoring and management of one of our most popular fisheries.
Download our blue swimmer fact sheet – https://marinewaters.fish.wa.gov.au/resource/fact-sheet-blue-swimmer-crab/
or read the DPIRD media release – https://www.wa.gov.au/government/announcements/national-science-week-crab-shells-tell-migration-story
