There are many kinds of crabs. The freshwater lakes alone boast more than 20 species, one of the highlights of which is the golden-claw crabs of Yangcheng Lake. After mid-autumn, fresh plump Yangcheng crabs appear on the markets in large quantities, another delicious addition to China’s dining tables.
Yangcheng Lake lies in Northeast Suzhou , near the cities of Wu Xian, Changshu and Kunshan. The clear water and abundant insects and grasses provide an excellent environment for the crabs. Crab is a kind of migration aquatic product. It stays in freshwater lakes before September. About a fortnight after the crabs cast their shells in September comes the mating and spawning season. At this time they crawl eastward to the juncture of the Yangtze River and the sea, creating an annual crabbing season. The waterways along the Yangcheng Lake are the only route taken by these migrating crabs, so they become the main crabbing area. Each year during September and October, the fishermen go there with nets, fishing grates, baskets, and even bamboo poles, causing a great deal of excitement.
After shells are removed the white jade-colored grease and snow-white flesh appear. Eaten with wine, the crab tastes delicious and is nutritious enough. Dishes made with crabs not only stay at the top of the menus in domestic restaurants, but also enjoy great popularity in overseas markets.
