Spider fish maw is a prized variety found mainly in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. An uncut piece resembles a hammer or a T-shaped beauty device. Rings project from both sides of the head, accompanied by two to six short, fine 'whiskers'. The spider-like outline gives the variety its name. These whiskers have also earned it the nickname 'small Golden Coin', reflecting the Chaoshan preference for whiskered fish maw.

How to identify spider fish maw?
1. Shape resembles a 'hammer'
An uncut piece has distinctive tubular projections that make it easier to identify. Its overall shape resembles a hammer, with several short whiskers at the head and a membrane running along the back.

2. Spider fish maw is divided into male and female.
Male and female spider fish maw differ in thickness and in whether a central rib is visible, providing another clue for identification.
Refer to the fish maw series page
We buy spider, Indonesian white, stone-belly, Taishan, red-chicken and other aged fish maw varieties
Guide to Selling Aged Fish Maw
- Want to know about edible bird's nest varieties and storage? Check this: Mrs Tong's Dilemma: A Simple Way to Sell Surplus Bird's Nest
- Want to understand the differences in cordyceps origins? Check this: Tibet, Qinghai, Sichuan: How do cordyceps from different origins differ in buyback pricing? — Identification methods
- Before selling dried abalone, you can do some homework by referring to: Why Is Abalone Described by 'Head Count'?
What can be prepared before a fish maw appraisal?
Before selling, photograph the front, back, sides and packaging, then send the images by WhatsApp so an appraiser can check the variety and storage condition.
Kam Hoi Shing dried-seafood buyback
WhatsApp: (852) 69035182
We arrange confidential on-site appraisal across major Hong Kong districts and settle immediately upon sale.