Xiphosura
- Pronunciation
- /zi-foh-SOOR-uh/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Xiphosurid
- Plural
- Xiphosura
Definition
An order of marine chelicerate arthropods commonly known as horseshoe crabs, characterized by a hard carapace and a long, spike-like tail.
Full guide
Read the full Xiphosura guide for identification, examples, and taxonomy.
Etymology
From Greek 'xiphos', meaning 'sword', and 'oura', meaning 'tail', referring to the shape of their tail.
Example
Xiphosura are often studied for their blue blood, which contains a substance valuable in medical applications.
Synonyms
Related Terms
- Chelicerata
- Arthropods
- Limulus
Usage Notes
Despite being called crabs, Xiphosura are more closely related to arachnids than to crustaceans.