Their scientific name is Varuna litterata, belonging to the family Grapsidae. These tiny crabs are prized for their flavorful roe, and the whole crab except for its tough shell is used as the additional protein and flavoring
also known as "taba ng talangka" or crab paste, which is a delicacy in the Philippines.
Here are some interesting facts about Talangka:
• Habitat: Found in mangroves, estuarine, and freshwater environments, shallow sub-tidal regions, coastal waters, or riverbanks.
• Diet: Phytophages, feeding mostly on plants, including diatoms or algae.
• Distribution: Common in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, India, Malaysia, and Thailand.
• Economic Importance: Highly valued for their roe, which is used to make crab paste, a popular delicacy in the Philippines.
• Fishing Methods: Caught using a gear known as "biokos", a round, cone-shaped net, often at night during the highest tides of the rainy season.