Crabs of Bangladesh may soon play an important role in the nation's economy. According to export promotion bureau officials, crabs are available in plenty, especially in the coastal areas. Considering its nutritious properties and the fact that it is a delicacy in Asia-Pacific countries like China, Singapore, Japan and also Canada and the US, it could become an important foreign exchange earner. Presently, 11 species of crabs including the cereta and ceal crabs, inhabit the Bangladesh waters.