ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Crabbers this summer have found stone crabs near Cape Charles and Norfolk, VA — far north of their typical range. Researchers believe the crabs may now be able to survive winters in the lower Chesapeake Bay because of the region’s warming waters.
Virginia has colder, temperate waters compared to the subtropical coastal waters between North Carolina and Florida, where stone crabs are typically found. Ocean currents have been known to sweep stone crab larvae into the Chesapeake Bay, but they don’t typically survive the winter water that stays below 40 degrees for days a time.
But Rom Lipcius, professor at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, said temperatures are rising in the lower Bay. Also, stone crabs use oyster reefs as nursery habitat — and the Chesapeake Bay Program has restored about 1,800 acres of oyster reef to reach its restoration goal.
Based on sightings from crabbers and the age of four captured stone crabs, Lipcius believes they’ve been in the Bay since 2021.
He said they seem to be coexisting peacefully with blue crabs south of Virginia and won’t compete for space because they have different habitats. Stone crabs burrow, are territorial and don’t migrate. So, Lipcius said they’re here to stay.
The Virginia Crab Management Advisory Committee will discuss in October how to regulate crabbing for the stone crab’s sought-after claws. The claws are a popular dish and an addition to stews in the South.
In the meantime, Lipcius requests people email him at rom@vims.edu if they see a stone crab and to include pictures of the top and bottom of the crab if possible.
Tropical warm waters make stone crabs sweet.
There ARE STONE CRABS in the CHOPTANK RIVER as far ups CAMBRIDGE!!