Crustaceans are a large, diverse group of arthropods that include crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and barnacles. They are characterized by a hard exoskeleton and jointed appendages. Crustaceans are found in all aquatic habitats, from freshwater to the deepest depths of the ocean.
Crustaceans are an important part of the global ecosystem and play a vital role in the food chain. They are a major source of food for fish, birds, and mammals; many crustaceans are also consumed by humans. In addition to their ecological importance, crustaceans have been used in medical research and have played a role in human history and culture.
The study of crustaceans is known as carcinology. Carcinologists use various techniques to examine different aspects of crustacean biology including anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior, and evolution. These studies have yielded important insights into the nature of these fascinating animals.