Extra claws for a worthy cause…

Mutant three-clawed crab is set to join Padstow’s National Lobster Hatchery.

The National Lobster Hatchery,is eagerly anticipating the arrival of a unique three-clawed crab. The remarkable crab which proudly displays an extra pair of pincers on one of its legs was hauled in by fisherman Craig Robinson, who was fishing off the coast of Swanage in Dorset. On spotting the crab’s bizarre extra claw, Craig alerted the National Lobster Hatchery who were delighted to be able to offer a home to the mutant crustacean, amongst their own display of sea creatures.

Fisherman Craig said ‘I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw three claws on the crab, especially as the extra one was on the end of an individual leg, rather than protruding from an already existing claw. What’s even more incredible is that all three claws are fully functional, so it must have a pretty good advantage over other crabs”

The three-clawed crab is currently being housed at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) and will be escorted to its new home on Padstow’s South Quay, by Lobster Hatchery Trustee, Dr Grant Stentiford. Dr Stentiford is delighted with the new addition and comments “Crabs along with other crustaceans are in fact capable of re-growing limbs that have been lost or damaged, so it could be the case this crab’s regeneration mechanism has got a little confused as to what it was replacing!”

The National Lobster Hatchery’s visitor centre attracts around 40,000 visitors a year and staff believe this unusual addition will cause a real stir amongst the public, especially with all three claws in working order. The National Lobster Hatchery’s Dr Carly Daniels said: "It is certainly unusual to find crustaceans with extra claws, especially one protruding from an individual leg socket. We can't be certain as to how it came about; it could be the result of a genetic mutation or environmental factors. Either way a three-clawed crab will certainly make an eye-catching addition to the National Lobster Hatchery”

The three-clawed crab, who is a female of the edible crab species, will be arriving at the National Lobster Hatchery in April 2012, so visitors can soon view this unique creation of nature for themselves. You may have to pincer yourself to believe it though!