Mineral Composition and Daily Mineral Intake from Freshwater Crabs: A Comparative Study of Himalayapotamon emphyseteum and Maydelliathelphusa masoniana in the Jammu division, J and K

The study explored the mineral composition of two freshwater crab species, Himalayapotamon emphyseteum and Maydelliathelphusa masoniana, native to the Himalayan river systems, specifically the Chenab and Ravi rivers. Himalayapotamon emphyseteum and Maydelliathelphusa masoniana were collected from various tributaries of the Chenab and Ravi river, which are the part of Indus River system. Mineral analysis was performed utilizing Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The assessment revealed that these relatively unexamined shellfish are rich sources of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, aluminium, zinc, sodium, iron, selenium and manganese. These elements play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, immune response, antioxidation, and blood clotting. If included in the human diet, these crabs could offer a high-quality nutrient profile that meets dietary requirements. This research highlights the potential of locally available freshwater crabs in the Jammu region as a valuable source of minerals, contributing to food security in the landlocked Himalayan areas.