Core Insights - The snow crab fishery in Japan has officially opened, with initial catch volumes on par with 2024 levels, but the industry faces a significant "declining birthrate" crisis [1][2] - Despite a good start to the fishing season, fishermen express concerns over the decreasing number of juvenile crabs, which could lead to a substantial decline in future catch volumes [1] Group 1: Current Situation - The first day of snow crab fishing yielded satisfactory results, with high demand observed at seafood exhibitions, particularly in Tokyo [1] - The highest grade of snow crab, "Kousei," fetched a price of 1.8 million yen (approximately 83,000 RMB) during the initial auction [1] Group 2: Long-term Concerns - Research indicates that while adult crab populations remain stable, there is a significant decline in juvenile crab numbers, which is expected to lead to a decrease in overall crab resources in the future [1] - The phenomenon of "declining birthrate" in snow crabs is attributed to environmental changes affecting the return of juvenile crabs to their growing grounds [2] Group 3: Economic Implications - The reduction in crab resources is likely to result in increased prices, which could impact the fishing industry that serves as an economic pillar for coastal regions [2]