"Spent 20 Yuan on Crabs" - Two Look Suspicious, Experts Warn: Eating Them Could Be Fatal

Crabs are beloved for their sweet and tender meat, but did you know that some crabs are actually inedible? A recent post on the Facebook group "Explosive Waste Society" highlighted a shocking experience shared by a user who, along with a junior, purchased several crabs for just NT$ 20 each at a fish market. However, they discovered the next day that two of the crabs appeared suspicious.

Upon consulting a friend involved in aquaculture, they uncovered a terrifying truth: the crabs were identified as two toxic species known as "Mosaic reef crab (Lophozozymus pictor)" and "Red egg crab (Atergatis integerrimus)". The toxins present in these crabs can be lethal, leading the pair to realize they had narrowly escaped a dangerous situation.

The original poster (OP) recounted that they had bought the crabs from a vendor at a fish market in New Taipei City, where the seafood looked appealing and the vendor's grandmother assured them that each crab was safe to eat. They planned to cook the crabs the following day. However, when the junior began preparing the seafood, he noticed something was off with two of the crabs and immediately sought advice from his aquaculture friend.

After learning about the toxic nature of these crabs, both individuals felt fortunate to have avoided serious consequences. The OP humorously remarked in their post, "Junior, why did you only exchange one semester? You should have studied for four years! Should I report this incident to the fish market management?"

The post quickly garnered attention from netizens, many expressing their horror at the situation. Comments ranged from disbelief—"They look just like regular crabs; how terrifying!"—to calls for action—"This needs to be reported; otherwise, more unsuspecting people might buy and consume them with dire consequences." Some users even praised the junior for his quick thinking.

In follow-up comments, the OP explained that they believed the seafood was safe based on the vendor's assurances and shared cooking methods. Admitting to being inexperienced with seafood identification, they expressed gratitude for their narrow escape.

Additionally, the market management contacted the OP to confirm details of the incident and promised to enhance public awareness about seafood safety to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The vendor's son later clarified that there was confusion during sales as customers intended to buy decorative hermit crabs or other marine items. He apologized for any misunderstandings caused by mixing edible and non-edible species during sales.

This incident serves as a crucial reminder for everyone to exercise caution when purchasing crabs or any seafood. Always verify their safety before consumption!