Pastries proposed as savory solution to crab crisis

ORONO, Maine - The unwanted crabs that have plagued Maine's clam beds for years might soon play a new role - as appetizer.

Two University of Maine scientists and a former graduate student believe they may have found a solution to the state's trouble with invasive green crabs, and it involves turning the clawed critters into savory pastries.

The green crabs threaten Maine's environment and economy because they're ravenous predators of softshell clams, one of the state's signature seafood items. State officials have said the crabs, which are native to Europe and turn red once cooked, have increased in numbers in recent years as water temperatures off Maine rise.