How do blue crabs reproduce?
The blue crab, scientifically known as Callinectes sapidus, lives for approximately three years. This crustacean reaches maturity around 12 to 18 months of age, at which time it is able to mate and reproduce, according to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park.MatingMating between blue crabs is thought to occur only once, according to the University of Maryland. Following mating, the male and female crabs separate and the female traveling to an appropriate egg-laying location.SpawningAlthough female crabs mate only once, they may spawn, or lay eggs, several times from that one mating, according to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Eggs may be laid for a period of one year from the time of mating, with most spawning occurring between May and September.Egg LocationThe female blue crabs of the Chesapeake Bay area travel to saltier waters in the southern end of the bay near the Atlantic Ocean to lay their eggs, according to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. This movement
