The purpose of this research is to fill high priority information gaps for seasonal crab population dynamics and biology to improve crab stocks

This $2,750,000 Project Grant from the Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (CFDA 11.469 Congressionally Identified Awards and Projects) supports research by the Bering Sea Fisheries Research Foundation to improve understanding of two economically critical Bering Sea crab stocks that are experiencing sharp declines or fishery closures. The 4-year grant, running from August 2023 to July 2027, aims to fill high priority information gaps on seasonal crab population dynamics and biology to enhance crab stock management. The foundation has also received sub-awards from the North Pacific Research Board to examine Bristol Bay red king crab seasonal movements, life history, and early life population bottlenecks.

Two economically critical and well known bering sea crab stocks are sharply declining or closed to fishing in response to ecosystem changes, climate impacts, and other compounding factors. This project supports bering sea crab fisheries.