Crustaceans

Crustaceans are a group of arthropods, which includes crabs, lobster, shrimp, and barnacles. They can be found in both marine and freshwater habitats and range in size from microscopic to over 8 feet in length. They are an important part of the aquatic food web, providing food directly for humans and predators and also serving as prey for many other species. They are also important for nutrient cycling, oxygen production, and sediment stabilization, making them important to the health of aquatic ecosystems. They also have important economic and recreational value, with many species harvested for food and bait and others used for recreation, such as crabbing and fishing.