Crab vs. Lobster: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 19, 2023
A crab is a decapod with a short, broad body and pincers, while a lobster has a long body, large claws, and a long tail.
Key Differences
A crab possesses a broad, flat body with a hard carapace, allowing it to squeeze into tight spaces, typically found in seafloor crevices. Conversely, a lobster showcases a cylindrical, elongated body with a pronounced tail, enabling it to swiftly dart backward in the water when threatened.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Both crab and lobster sport claws, but they serve different purposes. Crab claws are generally symmetrical and are used for defense and feeding. The lobster, on the other hand, often has one oversized claw for crushing and another slender one for cutting.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Crabs inhabit various environments, from freshwater to marine, and they often dwell in burrows or hide among seaweeds. Lobsters, especially the common American and European varieties, are mainly marine creatures and are usually found on rocky, sandy, or muddy bottoms.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Crabs come in varying sizes, from the tiny pea crab to the giant Japanese spider crab. Lobsters, particularly the American variety, can grow quite large, with some specimens weighing over 40 pounds.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Both crab and lobster play significant roles in global seafood markets. Crabs are harvested worldwide and are key components in numerous dishes. Lobster, especially from the North Atlantic, is regarded as a luxury item and is highly prized for its tender meat.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Body Structure
Broad, flat body with hard carapace
Elongated body with pronounced tail
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Primary Habitat
Marine, freshwater; burrows/seaweeds
Mainly marine; rocky, sandy, or muddy bottoms
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Economic Value
High, used in various dishes
High, considered luxury; tender meat
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
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Crab and Lobster Definitions
Crab
A marine crustacean with a broad carapace, short tail, and pincers.
She found a beautiful shell, only to discover it was the home of a small crab.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Lobster
A creature that can regenerate lost limbs over time.
It's amazing how a lobster can regrow a lost claw.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
Crab
A creature known for its sideway walking motion.
It's fascinating to watch a crab navigate the beach, moving side to side.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Lobster
A marine crustacean with a long body, large claws, and a distinct tail.
He ordered the lobster bisque as a starter during our fancy dinner.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Crab
An aquatic creature often used as a culinary delicacy in various cultures.
For dinner, we enjoyed a flavorful crab curry.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
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Lobster
An organism that turns red when cooked, despite its usual dark blue or greenish hue.
She was surprised to learn that the vibrant red lobster on her plate was once a deep blue color.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Crab
A symbol of the zodiac sign Cancer.
As a Cancer, she felt a unique connection to the crab.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Lobster
A sought-after seafood item known for its rich and tender meat.
The restaurant's special tonight is grilled lobster with garlic butter.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Crab
An individual who complains or grumbles frequently.
Don't be such a crab; it's just a small inconvenience!
Sara Rehman
Oct 19, 2023
Lobster
A term sometimes used to describe someone's significant other.
You're my lobster, he said, referencing a popular TV show.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Crab
Any of various chiefly marine decapod crustaceans of the infraorder Brachyura, having a hard carapace that covers a broad flattened cephalothorax with a small abdomen tucked beneath it, and an anterior pair of legs that are large and pincerlike.
Sumera Saeed
Jun 15, 2019
Lobster
Any of several edible marine decapod crustaceans of the family Nephropidae, especially of the genus Homarus, having stalked eyes, long antennae, a pair of large pincers, and a cylindrical body.
Sumera Saeed
Jun 15, 2019
Crab
Any of various similar decapod crustaceans, such as a hermit crab or a king crab.
Sumera Saeed
Jun 15, 2019
FAQs
Is the crab known for walking sideways?
Yes, crabs are recognized for their sideway walking motion.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 19, 2023
Do both crab and lobster play roles in culinary traditions around the world?
Absolutely, both crab and lobster are key ingredients in various global culinary dishes.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Is lobster considered a luxury dish?
Yes, lobster is often viewed as a luxury seafood item.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Is the zodiac sign Cancer represented by a crab?
Yes, Cancer is symbolized by a crab in the zodiac.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Are crab and lobster commercially significant?
Yes, both crab and lobster have significant commercial value in the seafood market.
Janet White
Oct 19, 2023
Which has a broader body structure, crab or lobster?
Crab has a broader and flatter body compared to lobster.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Is lobster meat found primarily in the tail?
Yes, the majority of the lobster's edible meat is found in its tail, but the claws also contain meat.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Do crabs live in both saltwater and freshwater?
Yes, crabs can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Which has a more pronounced tail, crab or lobster?
Lobster has a more pronounced tail compared to crab.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Which is larger, crab or lobster?
Generally, lobsters tend to be larger, but there are exceptions like the giant Japanese spider crab.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
What are the primary habitats of lobster?
Lobsters typically dwell in rocky, sandy, or muddy bottoms in marine environments.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Are there vegetarian dishes named after the crab?
Yes, dishes like "crab cakes" can have vegetarian versions using imitation crab or other substitutes.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Which is considered more expensive in restaurants, crab or lobster?
Typically, lobster is considered more expensive, but it can vary based on the type and location.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
Are there various species of both crab and lobster?
Yes, there are numerous species of both crab and lobster worldwide.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Do crabs often burrow or hide?
Yes, crabs often create burrows or hide among seaweeds and rocks.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Do both crab and lobster belong to the crustacean family?
Yes, both crab and lobster are crustaceans.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Do lobsters regenerate their limbs?
Yes, lobsters can regenerate lost limbs over time.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Do both crab and lobster have claws?
Yes, both crab and lobster have claws, but they serve different functions.
Harlon Moss
Oct 19, 2023
Are crabs and lobsters part of the decapod group?
Yes, both crabs and lobsters are decapods, meaning they have ten legs.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 19, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
