Interest in Domestic Consumption of Soft Shell Green Crabs and Levels of Awareness and Concern of Them as an Invasive Species in Maine

Green crabs (Carcinus maenas) pose a threat to coastal Maine habitats by exploiting natural resources and outcompeting native species. Studies have shown that there is viability in a fishery and market for soft shell green crabs. This study serves to evaluate the Interest in domestic consumption of soft shell green crabs and levels of awareness and concern of them as an invasive species in Maine. Questionnaires distributed via email and social media solicit fixed answers, which will be used to gather quantitative data regarding personal knowledge. Phone surveys conducted with voluntary participants will be utilized to support findings of the questionnaires.