also: まつばがに
snow crab; queen crab
Refers to the snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio), a prized winter delicacy in Japan, especially associated with the San'in region. Often called 松葉ガニ when caught in Tottori or Shimane.
See also: ズワイガニ
In winter, many people go to Tottori to eat snow crab.
champagne crab
A different species (Hypothalassia armata), rarely encountered in everyday contexts. The name 松葉ガニ is occasionally applied to this crab, but it is not the common snow crab.
It was sold as 'matsuba crab' at the market, but it was actually a rare champagne crab.
Standard spelling for the snow crab, especially in the San'in region.
Alternate kanji spelling using 蟹 for crab; less common than the katakana ガニ form.
The name 松葉 (pine needle) is said to come from the shape of the crab's legs resembling pine needles. The exact origin is uncertain, but it is a well-known regional name.