Shells of crabs

Types of Shells of Crabs

Crab shells, also known as crab exoskeletons, come in various types depending on species, but they can broadly be classified into two main categories based on their structure:

• Hard Shells

  These are fully developed and hardened outer coverings of mature crabs commonly referred to as crab shells. The hard shells of crabs serve the functions of protection and support to the soft body of the crab, known as the cephalothorax. These shells are relatively strong and resistant to mechanical injury or fracture. They are made up of a complex biological material known as chitin, which is reinforced with calcium carbonate. Due to their hardness and strength, the shells can be used in arts and crafts or as decorative pieces. They have the added benefit of being sustainable and biodegradable because they are made from natural materials.

• Molt

  Moults are soft, newly shed shells from crabs after they have molted. When crabs molt, they shed their hard shells to grow bigger. The process of molting is also referred to as ecdysis, and it occurs in several stages, beginning with the formation of a new soft shell. This newly formed soft shell is then covered with a protective layer of mucus before the old shell is separated from the body. After molting, crabs go through a phase where they are referred to as juveniles. They gradually become adults as they mature with time. The newly formed soft shell gradually hardens by the deposition of calcium carbonate to become a hard shell. The soft shell is fragile and lightweight compared to the hard shell. It can be used to prepare a variety of delicacies. The molt is lighter in weight and composed mostly of protein, making it suitable for food. They can be fried or cooked into soups. Moults also make excellent fertilizer as they decompose quickly in the soil, providing plants with the essential nutrients they need for their growth.

Function and features of shells of crabs

Crab shells serve many functions, including protection, support, and other vital activities. Their essential functions include;

• Protection: The primary purpose of any shell, including crab shells, is to protect. Crab shells protect all of a crab's vital organs and gills from predators or physical trauma. The hard exoskeleton protects the crabs from injury, and the powerful pincers and sharp spines deter some predators from attacking.
• Support: The crab's body structure is supported by the shell. It protects the gills and vital organs, allowing crabs to respire and protect their hearts and stomachs. Legs assist in movement, while pincers are used for eating and fighting; these body parts are all supported by the shell.
• Defense: The shell acts as effective armor, shielding crabs from outside threats and predatory fish. Some species of crab have spines or a stronger carapace that provide extra defense against attack.
• Respiration: Crab shells also serve other functions, including adaptation for respiration. A crab's gills are protected by its hard shell. Dissolved oxygen in water is filtered by the gills, enabling the crabs to breathe during swimming.
• strucural role: The crab shell also has a structural role, maintaining the crab's shape, stability, and support. Structural support allows muscular force generated by the crab to movement to result in movement, enabling the crab to swim and walk.
• storage and processing of food: Crabs use their pincers to eat and hold food, and their stomachs are located underneath the eyes, which are responsible for digesting food. The crab's digestive glands also store and help digest food. From there, it passes through the intestine, from where waste is excreted, and the whole process takes place within the crab shell.

Uses of shells of crabs

Crab shell has many uses, from making tools for beauty treatments to alternative medicine and even building materials. Here is a quick overview of the importance of crab shells in various industries.

• Agriculture

  Crab shells have been used in farming as a natural fertilizer and soil conditioner. They contain chitin, which helps plants grow when it decomposes. The crab shell also attracts beneficial insects, improves soil structure, and reduces compaction. Crushed or powdered crab shells are mixed with compost or added to garden beds as a sustainable input for organic farming. Farmers also use it as an animal feed supplement for livestock.

• Medicine

  Cancer treatment methods in traditional Chinese medicine use crab shells as an herbal remedy for various ailments, including swelling, fever, and skin infections. Modern medicine also uses it. The chitin and calcium carbonate in crab shells are excellent for making bandages and wound dressings. They promote healing, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.

• Cosmetics

  Crushed crab shells are popular additives in spa-like facilities, particularly in exfoliation treatments for the skin. The tiny granules enable dead skin cells to be gently scrubbed away, which encourages smoother, softer skin and enhances cell turnover. The shells also contain natural minerals that help hydrate and nourish the skin.

• Construction

  Builders use powdered crab shells as lightweight aggregate in green building projects. When mixed with lime and other materials, they help make eco-friendly bricks and blocks for low-impact structures. These blocks have unique properties that offer natural insulation, are good for energy efficiency, and reduce the carbon footprint.

• Art and Craft

  Crab shells can be used to create unique handicrafts. Shells can be polished and crafted into decorative items, jewelry, or art pieces. Some artisans also use it to make furniture and accessories.

How to choose shells of crabs

Choosing the right shells of crabs requires knowing the buyers' needs first. For instance, if a buyer is bulk purchasing for decoration purposes, one would need to get a uniform size and color. If the shells are for the pet industry, then one may need to buy different shells suitable for different animals. Whichever the case, the following factors should be considered when buying in bulk for the shells of crabs.

• Species: As earlier mentioned, different crab species have different shells. When buying in bulk, it is important to know the different species and the kind of customers each might attract. Dungeness, Horseshoe, Blue, King, Red, and Queen Anne’s crabs are the most common. However, customers may have specific preferences based on species.
• Size: Crab shells come in different sizes, from small to extra-large. The size varies depending on the specific needs of buyers and end customers. For instance, pet customers will need sizes that fit their pets, while those using the shells for craft projects will require varying sizes to fit project requirements.
• Quantity: Bulk ordering simply means ordering in large quantities. The order quantity will depend on the specific requirements of the business. Crab shells come in different holding quantities. Knowing how many shells are to be placed in each box will help determine which crate or box to order.
• Packaging: The shells of crabs can be packaged in different holding crates or boxes. To ensure they arrive safely and are stored safely, one must choose suitable packing materials. If the shells are to be transported, then waterproof boxes would be a great choice.
• Storage Facilities: Where are the shells going to be stored after arriving at the business premises? Before placing an order, one should consider storage facilities and whether the boxes holding the crab shells will require shelves or not.
• Market Trends: Checking what is trending in the market is a great way to attract customers. Are whole crab shells in demand? Are customers asking for specific species? Being aware of market trends helps attract more customers and results in more sales.

Q&A

Q: Why do people collect crab shells?

A: Crab shells can be used for many arts & crafts products, jewelry, and home decor, among many others.

Q: What is the purpose of a crab shell?

A: The purpose of a crab shell is to protect the crab's body from predators and other environmental factors such as dehydration.

Q: Are crab shells biodegradable?

A: Yes, crab shells are organic and will decompose over time.

Q: How long do crab shells take to decompose?

A: Crab shells take 3 to 5 years to decompose. They may take longer to decompose in dryer climates and areas with little microbial activity.

Q: In which layer of soil do crab shells decompose faster?

A: Crab shells decompose faster in the top layer of soil, also known as the organic layer. In this layer, the temperature is mild, and there is an abundance of microorganisms that speed up the decomposition process.