Crabs are fun and fascinating pets with unique looks and personalities. Naming them isn’t just for fun, it helps you feel closer to your little sea friend.
Whether you love marine life or just got your first crab, picking the right name makes them even more special. From ocean themes to creative ideas, there are so many names to choose from.
If you’re stuck, don’t worry, we’ve put together over 350 cute and unique crab names to help you find the perfect one. Let’s find a name your crab will love!
Fascinating Facts About Crabs: A Quick Overview
Category
Details
Scientific Name
Varies by species (e.g., Callinectes sapidus for Blue Crab)
Common Name
Crab
Origin
Worldwide – found in oceans, freshwater, and on land
Species
Over 6,800 known species (e.g., Fiddler Crab, King Crab, Hermit Crab)
Family
Varies by species (e.g., Portunidae, Ocypodidae, Majidae)
Order
Decapoda
Class
Malacostraca
Diet
Omnivorous – eats algae, detritus, mollusks, worms, small fish
Habitat
Beaches, coral reefs, mangroves, deep sea, rivers, and even forests
Weight
From a few grams to over 4 kg (e.g., Coconut Crab)
Length
0.3 to 40 inches, depending on species
Predators
Birds, fish, octopuses, sea otters, and humans
Lifespan
1 to 30 years, depending on species and environment
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crab names in different languages
Country
Crab Name
Meaning
Japan
Kani
Simple term for “crab” in Japanese.
France
Crabe
General term for “crab” in French.
Germany
Krebs
Common word for “crab” in German, also used in astrology (Cancer).
Italy
Granchio
Italian word for “crab.”
Spain
Cangrejo
Spanish word for “crab,” derived from “cangrejo de río” (river crab).
Greece
Karkinos
Greek word for “crab,” also associated with the zodiac sign Cancer.
Portugal
Caranguejo
Portuguese word for “crab,” used in coastal regions.
Russia
Rak
Russian word for “crayfish,” but often used for larger aquatic creatures, including crabs.
China
Xie (蟹)
Chinese term for “crab,” widely recognized in food and culture.
India
Kankra
Hindi word for “crab,” used commonly in the coastal regions.
Conclusion
Crabs are not only fascinating creatures but also hold significance in many cultures around the world. From their symbolic meanings in mythology to the various names used in different languages, crabs represent qualities like resilience, protection, and harmony. Whether it’s in stories, traditions, or everyday language, crabs continue to capture our imagination, making them special creatures in both nature and culture.
FAQs
Why do people name their crabs?
Naming crabs helps create a personal connection and adds a fun element to owning one. It can also reflect the crab’s unique characteristics or traits.
What are some good names for a pet crab?
Popular pet crab names include Pinchy, Claws, Crabbers, and Shelly. You can also get creative and use names based on colors, behaviors, or mythology.
What are some unique crab names?
Unique crab names can be inspired by different cultures, like Karkinos (Greek mythology), Xie (Chinese), or even Granchio (Italian). You can also use nature-based names like Coral or Marina.
Can I name my crab after a famous crab?
Absolutely! Famous crabs like Sebastian (from The Little Mermaid) or Mr. Krabs (from SpongeBob SquarePants) are fun, recognizable names for your pet crab.
What should I consider when choosing a crab’s name?
Consider your crab’s appearance, personality, or even its species. You might also choose names that reflect your love for the sea, mythology, or something funny and playful.
Abdullah Riaz
Abdullah Riaz is the creator of Namesgenius, where pet lovers, creatives, and curious minds come to find the perfect name. With a deep love for animals and storytelling, Abdullah curates handpicked lists of funny, cute, cool, and unique names for pets, stuffed animals, characters, and teams.
Every idea is written with heart - no fluff, no AI spam - just real inspiration to help you name what matters.
"A great name tells a story — let’s find yours."
Fun fact: Abdullah has named every houseplant and squirrel he’s ever met.
