Blue Crabs @ VIMS
The blue crab Callinectes sapidus has played a central role in the ecology, economy, and culture of Chesapeake Bay since the colonial era. Researchers at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) study all aspects of this species—including its ecology, physiology, and population dynamics—with an eye to conservation and a sustainable fishery.
Top Stories
- VIMS survey reveals crabbers’ preferences for managing derelict gear (Mar 2022) Findings can inform fishery managers and policymakers
- Scientific survey shows female blue crab population remains strong (May 2021) Number of spawning age females is above average, but poor recruitment means fewer crabs overall
- Blue crab stock remains within healthy range (May 2020) Species shows resilience despite general decline in abundance
- Blue crab stock healthy with above average abundance (May 2019) Female blue crab abundance in 2019 will benefit spawning and improve fisheries opportunities
- VIMS reaches out to crabbers for guidance on derelict pots (Jan 2019) Survey will gauge opinions and preferences on “ghost” pots in Virginia waters
Advisory Service Reports
Access the annual Blue Crab Advisory Report:
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Five Most Recent Journal Articles
- Scheld, A. M., et al., 2021. Evaluating optimal removal of derelict blue crab pots in Virginia, US. Ocean and Coastal Management, 211 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2021.105735
- Longmire, K. S., et al., 2021. Saved by the shell: Oyster reefs can shield juvenile blue crabs Callinectes sapidus. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 672 163-173. https://doi.org/10.3354/meps13781
- Bilkovic, D. M., et al., 2021. Nursery habitat use by juvenile blue crabs in created and natural fringing marshes. Ecological Engineering, 170 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoleng.2021.106333
- Spitznagel, M. I., et al., 2019. Investigating risk factors for mortality and reovirus infection in aquaculture production of soft-shell blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus). Aquaculture, 502 289-295. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquaculture.2018.12.051
- Small, H. J., et al., 2019. Parasitic dinoflagellate Hematodinium perezi prevalence in larval and juvenile blue crabs Callinectes sapidus from coastal bays of Virginia. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms, 134 (3): 215-222. https://doi.org/10.3354/dao03371
Read a full list of VIMS-authored journal articles related to blue crabs.