The Crab Bank is not another name for a crustacean market. It is however a sustainable activity aimed at preserving the livelihood of villagers living in coastal and wetlands areas.

According to Prak San, chief of Phum Thmey Community Fishery, crab banks are tasked with increasing natural stock, improving fishermen’s living conditions and raising awareness about crab conservation.

The idea is to harvest pregnant female crabs in cages until they spawn. Upon releasing the eggs, they are sold for profit. Community members should decide how the money from the sale is distributed.

With the support of CORIN-ASIA, a non-governmental organization, and the Cambodian Fisheries Administration, the crab bank was launched in 2008. Prak San claims that the number of crabs has grown since.

“Experts from Fisheries Administration guided voluntary workers on how to feed and harvest the crabs,” he said.