Studies of the Blue Crab in Texas

Blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, populations were studied in eight coastal bays of Texas and in the Gulf near Bolivar Peninsula. In 1966, young crabs were more abundant in Aransas Bay and the upper Laguna Madre than at any time since 1962. Observable abundance changes were not apparent in other bays sampled. Galveston Bay fishermen produced 50% of the commercial blue crab catch. Total landings decreased 24% from 1965. Spawning and seasonal occurrence is discussed.