Crustaceans

Crustaceans are one of the largest groups of animals inhabiting our planet. Most crustaceans live in water, but some live on land. Crustaceans are the most numerous animals in the oceans, but some crustaceans live in fresh water. There are about 30,500 known species of crustaceans around the world. They come in bizarre shapes and sizes. All have a hard outer shell that, as the animal grows, must be removed and discarded. Once this takes place, the new shell takes time to harden. During this period, the animal is without its primary means of protection and vulnerable to attack from predators.

Crustaceans have a head and abdomen. The head has antennae, which are part of their sensory system. The abdomen includes the heart, digestive system and reproductive system.

The claw of many crustaceans is capable of exerting hundreds of pounds of pressure. Crustaceans are prey to other animals, namely octopi and some fish. Members of this animal group include, lobsters, Cray fish, shrimps and crabs.

Photos and text by Etienne Micallef