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Questions and Answers
How long have American horseshoe crabs been around compared to dinosaurs?
How long have American horseshoe crabs been around compared to dinosaurs?
What is the primary function of the photoreceptors located on the tail of the American horseshoe crab?
What is the primary function of the photoreceptors located on the tail of the American horseshoe crab?
What color is the blood of an American horseshoe crab when exposed to air?
What color is the blood of an American horseshoe crab when exposed to air?
What type of food do American horseshoe crabs primarily eat?
What type of food do American horseshoe crabs primarily eat?
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How often do American horseshoe crabs typically molt before reaching adulthood?
How often do American horseshoe crabs typically molt before reaching adulthood?
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Study Notes
American Horseshoe Crab
- Ancient species: Existed 450 million years ago, before dinosaurs.
- Crawling on ocean floor: Long-lived, currently existing.
- Protective exoskeleton: Tank-like shell, molts multiple times as it grows.
- Feeding: Grinds food with legs, uses pincers to feed, eats invertebrates (e.g., worms).
- Ten eyes: Some on top of shell, some on underside, including photoreceptors on tail.
- Photoreceptors: Tail photoreceptors regulate body clock, react to changes in light (helpful for nocturnal feeding).
- Blue blood: Copper-based, unique color; clotting mechanisms protect from toxins.
- Immune cells: Highly sensitive to toxins; used in vaccine testing to identify contamination.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the fascinating American horseshoe crab, an ancient species that has existed for 450 million years. Learn about its unique characteristics, feeding habits, and important role in medical research. This quiz will cover everything from its exoskeleton to its blue blood.
