Yangcheng Lake

Infobox lake
lake_name = Yangcheng Lake
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image_bathymetry = Yangchenglakemap.png caption_bathymetry = Location of Yangcheng Lake
location = Jiangsu
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basin_countries = China
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Yangcheng Lake (zh-cp|c=阳澄湖|p=Yang Cheng Hu) is a freshwater
lake about 3 kilometers northeast of the town of Suzhou in
Jiangsu Province, China. It is the most famous area of origin for the Chinese mitten crabs which are a considered a delicacy.

Yangchen lake is located between Lake Tai and the Yangtze River. It crosses the boundary of the cities Wuxian, Changshu and Kunshan and has a surface area of about 20 square kilometers. The Chinese mitten crabs migrate from Yangcheng Lake towards the
Yangtze delta for mating in September and October. The local fishermen harvest the animals during this migration. In 2002, the total production of Hairy Crabs in Yangcheng Lake was estimated to be about 1,500 tonnes.

External links

* [http://www.chinadaily.net/en/doc/2003-10/21/content_274117.htm China Daily article on faked origins of Hairy Crabs]
* [http://www.suzhou.gov.cn/English/travel/81.shtml article on the lake and the crab by the Suzhou government]