Meet the horseshoe crab: a living fossil from the Ordovician period.
Horseshoe crabs are ancient marine arthropods that have survived for millions of years. Their fossil record dates back over 440 million years, making them one of the oldest living animal groups on Earth. Despite their name, they are more closely related to arachnids than crabs.
Key Features:
- Ancient Origins: Traceable to the Ordovician period.
- Unique Anatomy: Distinctive horseshoe-shaped body and segmented tail.
- Marine Habitat: Found in brackish and saltwater environments.
Discover the importance of horseshoe crabs.
These fascinating creatures play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. They are used as bait for fishing and are also important for medical research.
Learn more about horseshoe crabs and their significance today.