South East Sulawesi
Indonesia
Blue Swiming Crab Trap
Location & History
The Southeast Sulawesi BSC fishery is one of Indonesia’s significant sources of blue swimming crab outside Java. Scientific research identifies BSC as economically important in the region, with fishing grounds in areas such as the Tiworo Strait and other coastal waters. These fisheries have been conducted for decades by small‑scale fishers using traps and gillnets, with recent studies documenting stock dynamics, growth patterns, and exploitation levels.
Due to the high economic value and export demand for BSC, Southeast Sulawesi has engaged in efforts toward more sustainable fishing, including gear modifications and management recommendations to protect juvenile crabs and improve selectivity. These efforts contribute to maintaining both fishery productivity and coastal community well‑being.
How is the Blue Swimming Crab Caught?
All the Blue Swimming Crab (BSC) from this fishery is caught using traditional traps carefully designed to minimize environmental impact. The traps are selectively baited, allowing fishers to target crabs while reducing bycatch. These fishing methods align with sustainable practices, supporting both the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of local communities.
Catch rates are closely monitored upon landing to ensure compliance with sustainable harvest limits and to track the health of the crab population. Fishers typically operate small, artisanal vessels crewed by one to three individuals. Fishing trips range from a single day to several days, depending on the location and weather conditions, with typical catches varying based on effort and vessel capacity.
Upon returning to shore, the crabs are immediately sorted by size and quality. They are then transported to local processing facilities, where they are prepared for export or domestic markets. This fishery’s partnership with APRI ensures the implementation of best management practices, rigorous traceability systems, and continuous improvements to uphold sustainability standards.
Unique Features & Fun Fact
The region’s complex coastline and island systems create high habitat diversity, supporting resilient crab populations when fishing pressure is well managed.
Meet The Fishers
Fleet Capacity
Target Species
Blue Swimming Crabs
Blue swimming crab is a brachyuran crab in the Portunidae family. Crabs from this family are usually recognized by their flat, disc-shaped hind legs, which are used as paddles for swimming, and by the nine spikes (aka horns) along their carapace, on either side of their eyes. Males are bright blue in color with white spots and characteristically long chelipeds, the females are a duller green/brown with a more rounded carapace. Spawning occurs year-round, with peak spawning seasons in Indonesia typically between May and October. Female blue crabs mate only during molting, and the male crabs carry and protect them until molting and mating occurs. Blue swimming crab is common throughout the Indo-Pacific in inshore and continental shelf habitats, including sand, mud, algae, and seagrass near reefs and mangrove areas, and is found from the intertidal zone to depths of 70 m. The species matures quickly (about 1 year), has a short lifespan (about 3 years), and is a partial brooder.
Blue Swimming Crabs (Portunus pelagicus) are primarily found in warm tropical and subtropical waters, particularly in shallow coastal areas such as estuaries, lagoons, and sandy bottoms. These crabs are prized for their sweet, delicate flavor and tender white meat, which is a result of their habitat and diet consisting of small invertebrates and detritus. East Java, Indonesia, is one of the key regions for harvesting Blue Swimming Crab, where sustainable fishing practices like traps and gillnets are used to ensure the health of crab populations and marine ecosystems.
Fishing Gear
Fishing Gear
Fishing techniques for Blue Swimming Crab vary but primarily involve the use of traps. Fishers deploy baited traps in shallow coastal waters to target crabs selectively, minimizing bycatch and environmental impact. Traps designed to minimize habitat damage and allow for the release of undersized crabs. These traps are checked frequently to ensure captured crabs remain healthy and to reduce mortality rates. Traps are round or square-shaped (depending on the locality), usually measure 32 × 51 × 21 cm, are made of wire mesh or a galvanized steel frame with two funnel entrances, and are sometimes covered by a polyethylene, green, square- or diamond-shaped net. Typically, there are 150 to 400 baited traps (with fish pieces)—the number limited only by the size of the boat—that are connected to a main line, and these are set by boat on sandy bottoms to depths of 20–50 m. Traps are soaked overnight and the catch is collected on-site.
Fishery Association
What is an industry association?
Industry associations are organizations responsible for promoting and enforcing standards, regulations, and best practices within a specific sector. These associations support businesses by providing resources, educational programs, and advocacy to ensure industry compliance and growth. Additionally, they engage in lobbying efforts to influence policymakers on issues affecting the industry.
Asosiasi Pengelolaan Rajungan Indonesia (APRI)
The Asosiasi Pengelolaan Rajungan Indonesia (APRI) was established to unify and represent the Blue Swimming Crab (BSC) industry in Indonesia. As a key player in promoting sustainability and best practices, APRI ensures that the harvest and processing of BSC align with international standards. Its members include fishers, processors, and exporters, reflecting the entire supply chain.
APRI focuses on creating sustainable fisheries through measures such as promoting the use of traps and gillnets, ensuring traceability, and supporting data-driven fisheries management. The association works closely with government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations to implement conservation strategies that benefit both the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
In addition, APRI actively participates in educational programs, training sessions, and resource management initiatives to support its members. Through these efforts, APRI is committed to building a sustainable future for Indonesia’s Blue Swimming Crab fishery while ensuring compliance with international market requirements.
Regional Fisheries Management in South East Sulawesi
Blue Swimming Crab Fisheries in South East Sulawesi
BSC fisheries in Southeast Sulawesi operate across diverse coastal habitats, including sandy bottoms, seagrass beds, and reef-adjacent areas. These fisheries provide critical income for small-scale coastal communities.
Management is implemented under national frameworks, with APRI guiding responsible fishing practices, such as the use of baited traps, size-selective harvesting, and careful handling to protect juvenile crabs.
APRI works with fishers and processors to monitor catches, collect stock data, and enforce traceability systems, ensuring sustainable harvesting and continued access to international markets while maintaining the livelihoods of local communities.
