Buy Fresh Mud Crab (Kekra) Online in Karachi
Buy fresh Mud Crab (Kekra) online in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad & across Pakistan with reliable seafood home delivery. At Gwadar Seafood, our crab is sourced fresh, hygienically handled, and delivered without chemical treatment or long-term freezing.
Introduction
The Mud Crab, scientifically known as Scylla serrata, is a highly sought-after crustacean that thrives in the muddy, brackish waters of coastal regions. In Pakistan, it is commonly known as Kekra (کیکڑا).
Mud Crabs are famous for their large, powerful claws and thick, robust exoskeleton. They are an important part of the local seafood market due to their sweet, tender meat and delicate flavor, making them a favorite in various culinary dishes.
The meat of the Mud Crab is known for being rich and slightly sweet, offering a unique texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender legs and claws. The crabs are caught primarily from the coastal regions of Karachi, Balochistan, and other parts of the Arabian Sea.
Habitat, Diet & Growth
Habitat
Mud Crab lives in:
- Mangrove forests
- Estuaries
- Mudflats
- Brackish coastal waters
These environments, especially along Karachi and Balochistan coastlines, provide ideal conditions for growth and breeding.
Diet
Mud Crab is an opportunistic feeder and eats:
- Mollusks
- Small fish
- Crustaceans
- Organic matter
This natural diet contributes to its rich and slightly sweet flavor.
Growth
- Grows up to ~25 cm shell width
- Reaches maturity in 1–2 years
- Molts multiple times during growth
Mud Crabs are also known for their ability to survive in fluctuating environmental conditions, including changes in salinity, temperature, and oxygen levels, making them highly adaptable.
Spawning & Conservation
- Spawning occurs during warmer months
- Females release large numbers of eggs
- Not endangered, but overfishing risks exist
Sustainable fishing and protection of mangroves are essential to maintain healthy populations.
Names & Taxonomy
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Mud Crab |
| Local Name (Pakistan) | Kekra (کیکڑا) |
| Scientific Name | Scylla serrata |
| Family | Portunidae |
| Order | Decapoda |
| Class | Malacostraca |
| Phylum | Arthropoda |
Mud Crab belongs to the swimming crab family and is known for its strong claws and heavy body.
Sourcing & Catching Method
Our Mud Crab is:
- Wild-caught from the Arabian Sea
- Sourced from Karachi & Balochistan coast
- Caught using:
- Crab pots
- Trap fishing
- Gill nets
Each crab is handled carefully to maintain freshness and hygiene.
Physical Traits & Texture
- Shell: Dark green to brown
- Claws: Large, strong, meaty
- Meat: Firm, juicy, slightly sweet
- Texture: Dense and rich after cooking
Claw and leg meat is the most prized part.
Size Options
Mud Crabs vary in size, typically ranging from medium to large, depending on fresh catch availability.
Cutting Options & Approximate Yield
| Cut Type | Approx Yield | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Whole (uncleaned) | ~100% | Whole roast, soup, broth |
| Claws & Legs Removed | ~70% | BBQ, grilling |
| Shell Removed | ~35% | Crab curry, meat dishes |
| Meat Only | ~15% | Stuffing, gourmet recipes |
Cooking Ideas
- Crab Karahi – spicy masala with tomatoes & green chili
- Garlic Butter Crab – rich, simple, flavorful
- Crab Malai – creamy coconut-based curry
- Crab Noodles – stir-fry style dish
- Crab Yakhni – light, aromatic broth
Tips for Selecting Fresh Mud Crab (Kekra)
- Shell should be hard and intact
- Claws should be strong and full
- Eyes should be clear
- Smell should be fresh and ocean-like
- Crab should be active and responsive
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate at 0–4°C and use within 1–2 days
- Freeze in airtight packaging for longer storage
- Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing
Nutrition Facts (Per 100g Raw Crab Meat)
| Nutrient | Approx. Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~100 kcal |
| Protein | ~20–22 g |
| Fat | ~2–3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Sodium | ~50–60 mg |
| Omega-3 | ~0.5 g |
| Calcium | ~20–30 mg |
| Iron | ~1.0–1.2 mg |
Key Benefits:
- High-quality protein source
- Moderate fat with good nutrients
- Supports muscle growth and recovery
- Suitable for balanced diets
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