AMERICAN GARDENER

Seals are marine mammals belonging to the pinniped group, a name that means “fin-footed.” They are well adapted to life in the water, with streamlined bodies, flippers for swimming, and thick layers of blubber that help insulate them in cold oceans. While seals spend much of their time at sea, they must come ashore or … Read more

The Dungeness crab is a widely recognized marine crab known for its rich flavor, large size, and significance in coastal fisheries. Found along the Pacific coast of North America, it plays an important ecological role in benthic communities and has become an iconic species associated with West Coast seafood. Its biology, behavior, and commercial importance … Read more

Snow crabs are cold-water crustaceans widely recognized for their long legs, delicate meat, and enormous economic significance in northern fisheries. They inhabit some of the world’s most frigid marine environments, thriving where few other crab species can survive. Their biology, behaviors, and ecological roles make them one of the most studied crabs in Arctic and … Read more

Classification The Blue Crab belongs to the phylum Arthropoda, class Malacostraca, order Decapoda, and family Portunidae, a group known as the swimming crabs. Its scientific name, Callinectes sapidus, translates to “beautiful savory swimmer,” referring to both its attractive coloration and culinary value. As a portunid crab, it is characterized by having specially adapted hind legs … Read more

King crabs are large, heavily armored crustaceans known for their impressive size, powerful legs, and commercial importance. They belong to a group of crabs often found in cold northern waters, especially around the North Pacific. These crabs are both ecologically significant and widely harvested, making them one of the most recognizable crustaceans in the seafood … Read more

Hermit crabs are small crustaceans known for their habit of occupying empty shells for protection. Unlike true crabs, their abdomens are soft and vulnerable, so they rely on discarded shells as mobile homes. They are found in both marine and terrestrial environments and display fascinating behaviors tied to growth, survival, and social interaction. Classification Hermit … Read more