A fisherman was stunned to find an ultra-rare “sponge-coated” crab off the coast of Cornwall—that looks just like a Cornish pastry.
Ian Jepson, who has been a sustainable lobster and crab pot fisherman for 35 years, discovered the usual crustacean while out at sea.
He said they seemingly carve out a piece of sponge that sits loosely on their back—resulting in a close resemblance to the local crimped and baked favorite.
Ian said the sighting six miles off the coast of Perranporth had certainly helped brighten up his day at sea.
“We do get a few weird things now and again and it is great to see. It certainly makes the day more enjoyable out here,” he added.
“We caught it six miles off Perranporth and were delighted. You don’t see them often, so it was lovely to see. Afterwards, we carefully and slowly returned it so the sponge remained on its back.
“I’m not too sure if they are actually called sponge crabs, but we have always called them that.
“They seem to carve out a piece of sponge which is loose fitting on their backs. We only usually get one every year or two, but this summer we have had five already.
“I don’t know if the increase is down to global warming, but I am now trying to find out how far they have spread.”
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