⏰ when
When was the horseshoe crab first scientifically described?
Quick Answer
The Atlantic horseshoe crab was first described in 1758.
The Full Story
The Atlantic horseshoe crab was formally described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus. Though called a crab, it is not a true crustacean and is more closely related to spiders and scorpions than to crabs. Horseshoe crabs are famous for their blue blood, which is used in medical testing because it clots in the presence of certain bacterial toxins. Their ancient body plan has remained recognizable for hundreds of millions of years.
Key Facts
1.Described in 1758
2.Named by Carl Linnaeus
3.Not a true crab
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"This ‘crab’ isn’t a crab at all — and it was named in 1758."
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