$Hairy crab #I am also among the very first to eat crabs🦀 in name and in deed

Hairy crab (Chinese mitten crab) mainly symbolizes in Chinese culture:
• Good fortune, wealth luck, career success, and harmony.
• Wealth from all directions / prosperity from every side, smooth financial luck
Hairy crabs have eight legs, corresponding to the auspicious number “eight” (a homophone of “prosperity”); their two strong claws, once they clamp down, do not easily let go, symbolizing the ability to hold onto wealth and seize unexpected gains. In ancient times, crabs were also called “eight-legged insects,” implying wealth or talent coming from all directions.
• Roaming the world, advancing everywhere
Crabs walk sideways, and the ancients called them “horizontal-climbing warriors” or “horizontal-climbing generals.” This symbolizes success in business and career, moving through the world smoothly, and is also used to bless travelers with a safe and successful journey.
• Success in the imperial examinations, second-rank passing
In ancient times, “jia” often referred to a crab shell. Folk auspicious patterns often depict two crab claws holding reeds, a pun on “second-rank passing” (first place among those who passed the second rank in the imperial exam), implying success in exams, outstanding talent, and achievement. Crabs are thus also associated with the image of being first place, such as “jieyuan.”
• Great luck at the start, making a huge windfall
After cooking, the crab shell turns red, symbolizing “good luck at the start” and continuous good fortune. The two large claws are also given the meaning of “money,” implying a big unexpected windfall.
• Harmony, gratitude
“Lotus crab” sounds like “harmony,” and is often paired with lotus flowers, symbolizing a harmonious era and a happy family.
“Crab” sounds like “thanks,” and also carries the meaning of gratitude and appreciation, making it suitable as a gift to express thanks.