The Asian paddle crab is an aggressive predator that competes with native crabs for space and food. They prey on a wide range of native species, including our shellfish, fish, other crustaceans and invertebrates, posing a significant threat to local marine ecosystems. 

These crabs reproduce rapidly, with females producing up to 85,000 eggs multiple times a year. The larvae can survive in varying water temperatures and salt levels, allowing them to spread over large distances via tides and currents. 

• Size: Adults have an upper shell that can grow up to 12 cm across.
• Appearance: They have paddle-like hind legs and six distinct spines on each side of the shell below the eyes. Each claw features five prominent spines on its upper surface. Their colour ranges from pale green or olive green to deep chestnut brown with purplish markings.
• Distinctive features: The upper shell is often covered in small hairs, though these may not always be visible.
• Similar species: They can be distinguished from other crab species by six pointed spines on either side of their upper shell, and by black-tipped claws with five spines on the upper surface. 
• Habitat: In New Zealand, Asian paddle crabs are typically found in estuaries with firm sand; muddy fine sand; or muddy, shelly fine sand. In their native range in Southeast Asia, they inhabit inter-tidal and sub-tidal zones down to about 15 metres, including sandy, muddy, or rocky reefs.

Late spring to early autumn (October to March). This period aligns with the warmer months when crabs are most active, feeding, and reproducing. Juveniles and adults are more mobile and visible in these months.

It is an offence to breed, knowingly communicate, exhibit, multiply, propagate, release, or sell, an unwanted organism (Biosecurity Act 1993).

www.orc.govt.nz/asianpaddlecrab