South 24 Parganas, West Bengal

Sundarban Mud Crab (Khagra)

The mangrove mud crab (Scylla spp.) hook-caught by Sundarbans fishermen from the estuary creeks, one of the most valuable crustaceans in Indian and export markets. It is a core livelihood of the Sundarbans blocks, and both wild catch and farm-raised stock supply Kolkata fish markets and exporters. Sold live or cleaned by the kilogram, its firm white claw meat and rich brown meat go into Bengali dishes like khagra roush, jhal jhal and steamed crab. Buyers can purchase live crabs at Canning and Diamond Harbour fish markets or through Kolkata suppliers and online fish sellers that source straight from Sundarbans fishermen.

Typical price: ₹300-800 per kg

Buying tip: Buy live crabs in the monsoon peak season with firm, active claws; wholesale rates near the Sundarbans (Canning/Diamond Harbour) are much lower than retail in Kolkata.