Atlantic horseshoe crab
Limulus polyphemus
This record describes Limulus polyphemus (species). Recorded family: Limulidae. Recorded order: Xiphosura.
About Xiphosura: the wider group
Order-level background for Xiphosura, the group containing Limulus polyphemus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
This is a smaller arthropod order with specialized ecological roles. Arthropods are the most diverse animal phylum, comprising over 80% of all known animal species with approximately 1.2 million described species globally.
Ecological role of the group
Members of this order contribute to broader arthropod ecosystem functions including decomposition, predation, and serving as food sources for vertebrates. Arthropod biodiversity is essential for ecosystem resilience.
Economic and practical significance of the group
While this order has limited direct economic impact, arthropods collectively provide ecosystem services worth trillions of dollars annually through pollination, decomposition, pest control, and nutrient cycling.
Recorded sources for this group: General entomology and arthropod research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Atlantic horseshoe crab (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by John R. Maxwell