Xiphosurida
Scientific name: Xiphosurida
Xiphosurida
Scientific name: Xiphosurida
Description
The Xiphosurida, commonly referred to in some circles as horseshoe crabs, are remarkable creatures that have inhabited the Earth for over 450 million years, making them one of the oldest living species. Despite their name, horseshoe crabs are not actual crabs; they are more closely related to spiders than to true crabs. Additionally, their blue blood, which contains a unique substance called hemocyanin, is highly valued in medicine for its ability to detect bacterial contamination. This evolutionary marvel continues to challenge our understanding of the animal kingdom, demonstrating the intricate connections that exist among different life forms.