Learn about the Tra Co horseshoe crab.

Horseshoe crabs are a famous specialty in Tra Co, Mong Cai, Quang Ninh. This crustacean has a rather unique appearance, often likened to a "spider-crab hybrid" with its hard shell, pointed tail, and ten legs.

Horseshoe crabs live in seas with sandy and muddy bottoms. They usually travel in pairs, with the male clinging to the female's back, hence the saying "sticking together like horseshoe crabs." Female horseshoe crabs are usually heavier than males. Horseshoe crabs are a unique and delicious delicacy. The meat is chewy and sweet, and the roe is rich and creamy.

• Sea cucumbers are prepared into many delicious dishes such as:
• • Sam salad
  • Sam blood pudding
  • Sam stir-fried with lemongrass and chili
  • Crispy fried sea urchin eggs
  • Stir-fried sea cucumber with sweet and sour sauce
  • Grilled Sam
• The horseshoe crab season usually lasts from April to September each year, but in Quang Ninh , the horseshoe crabs are at their best from October to February according to the lunar calendar.

When you visit Tra Co, you can easily find seafood restaurants serving dishes made from horseshoe crabs.