What scientists have learned about American horseshoe crab physiology has led to significant advancements in eye research and in the testing for the safety of pharmaceutical drugs. But surprisingly, despite its importance to humans, very little is known about the abundance of the horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus in Latin) in the coastal areas where it resides. This is particularly true in Long Island Sound, but monitoring programs such as Project Limulus are beginning to bring us greater understanding of this important marine animal.
To learn more about the Horseshoe Crab and the Limulus Project, download the pdf slide-show