Variability in Morphological Traits and Nutritional Profiles of Adult Eriocheir sinensis in Different Aquacultural Regions

<i>Eriocheir sinensis</i> is a species of significant economic importance in China's aquaculture industry. In order to investigate the variations in morphologic and nutritional profiles of farmed crabs across diverse farming regions, <i>E. sinensis</i> were collected from six aquafarms located in the primary cultivation areas in China. The findings revealed significant variations in specific morphological indices, but these are insufficient for clear regional distinction using PCA. Essential amino acid (EAA) levels varied by tissue and gender, with ovaries from the YY (Yongyan in Anhui province) group showing the highest levels, while the hepatopancreas in females from the JX (Jianxian in Jiangxi province) group had the lowest. The analysis of fatty acid contents revealed that muscles were rich in PUFAs, whereas MUFAs were dominant in the hepatopancreas and gonads. The fatty acid levels were significantly higher in ovaries than in testes, notably in the HZ (Huzhou in Zhejiang province), EZ (Ezhou in Hubei province), YY, and JX groups. Furthermore, the PCA based on proximate composition, amino acids, and fatty acids revealed distinct categorizations of <i>E. sinensis</i> from various regions. In conclusion, these findings highlight significant regional variations in the morphology and nutritional composition of farmed <i>E. sinensis</i>, suggesting the need for tailored aquaculture practices to optimize quality and output.