5 Bone-Chilling Facts About the Japanese Giant Spider Crab That Will Haunt Your Dreams

As land-dwelling mammals, humans often perceive the ocean as a vast, mysterious, and sometimes frightening place. Among the many terrifying creatures lurking in its depths, the Giant Spider Crab, also known as the Japanese Spider Crab, stands out as a true nightmare. Here are 10 spine-chilling reasons why the Giant Spider Crab is the most terrifying crustacean of the deep.

1. They Are Enormous

Credit: Flickr – Brian Gratwicke

The first thing you’ll notice about the Giant Spider Crab is its sheer size. With a leg span that can reach up to 12 feet and a weight of up to 42 pounds, these crabs are colossal. Imagine a creature this size lurking in the ocean—it could easily consume a human child if it chose to.

2. They Dwell in the Depths

Flickr – Loren Javier

Giant Spider Crabs inhabit the deep, dark regions of the ocean. They are typically found at depths between 490 and 980 feet, where the environment is harsh and foreboding. This makes them well-adapted to the most extreme oceanic conditions.

3. Powerful Claws

Discovered in 1836 by Coenraad Jacob Temminck, the Giant Spider Crab is notorious for the severe injuries it can inflict with its strong, extended claws. Their formidable reach makes them even more menacing.

4. Difficult to Catch

Due to their deep-sea habitat, Giant Spider Crabs are notoriously difficult to catch. In Japan, there is only one fishery dedicated to harvesting these crabs, and it operates year-round except during the mating season, highlighting the challenge of capturing these elusive creatures.

5. Voracious Eaters

Despite their terrifying appearance, Giant Spider Crabs are considered a delicacy in parts of Japan. However, the thought of eating one of these enormous, spindly creatures might still send shivers down your spine.

If you’re not yet convinced of the Giant Spider Crab’s terrifying nature, check out some videos of them in action. For instance, here’s a video of a Giant Spider Crab attacking a diver’s camera. They don’t seem so gentle to me—yikes!