The Horseshoe Crab

For many, the horseshoe crab is a childhood acquaintance, first introduced by a fierce-looking shell on a sandy beach.

For ecologists, the horseshoe is an important creature — a vastly adaptable generalist that predates most species on the planet, with a lifecyle that is interlocked with other animals.

For the scientist, the limuli are an intriguing puzzle, offering insights into evolution, bacteria, vision and species- interdependence.