BlueBloods
26
WBM september 2018
Horseshoe crabs
are an ancient
and exotic species
with a vital role
to play
CHARLES RIVER LABORATORIES
By Ashley Paige Edwards
Top: Horseshoe crabs like these in Mispillion
Harbor, Delaware, have survived in the same form
as when they first appeared on the scene, some
400 million years ago. Above: Their blue blood, seen
here being harvested at Charles River Laboratories
in Charleston, South Carolina, can detect harmful
bacteria in vaccines and medical equipment.
GREGORY BREESE/USFWS
