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The sex of a blue crab is determined by the shape of the apron

Description

The sex of a blue crab is determined by the shape of the apron. The maleapron, shown here, is shaped like a rocket. Females have either a V shape(immature) or a very wide apron with a small tip (mature.)

Photographer

Mary Hollinger

Display Date

1999 July 25

Location

Maryland, Chesapeake Bay

Collection

America's Coastlines
Chesapeake Bay
Beautiful Swimmer - The Blue Crab

NOAA Affiliation

NODC biologist

Keywords

Coastline
Chesapeake Bay Maryland