This method for distinguishing two mitten crabs, E. sinensis
and E. japonica, without morphological determination is important
because morphological species identification before the
release of juvenile crabs is too difficult. Based on these DNA
differences between the two species, the restriction enzyme
MboII and new primers enable us to easily distinguish the mitten
crabs E. sinensis and E. japonica without the need for morphological
determination, sequencing, or sequencing analysis
methods. The inexpensive, convenient, and rapid PCR-RFLP and
PCR method described herein provides a useful tool for the
identification of mislabeled crabs that are to be released for stock
enhancement.