New Global Guide to Marine Decapod Crustaceans Published by Australian Museum Researchers
Researchers from the Australian Museum Research Institute and Museums Victoria Research Institute have published a comprehensive identification guide to marine decapod crustaceans worldwide. The book, titled 'Marine Decapod Crustacea: a Guide to Families and Genera of the World,' provides tools for identifying these diverse animals, which include approximately 15,000 species globally. Authored by Professor Shane Ahyong and Dr. Gary Poore, the volume synthesizes taxonomic knowledge, offers identification keys, and includes illustrations and photographs. The publication aims to assist specialists and non-specialists alike in recognizing these ecologically significant creatures, which range from tiny crabs to the Giant Japanese Spider Crab. The work addresses the challenge of identifying decapods due to their abundance and variety.
Key facts
- A new book provides identification tools for marine decapod crustaceans worldwide
- The guide covers approximately 15,000 species of decapods, including crabs, lobsters, and prawns
- Authors are Professor Shane Ahyong of the Australian Museum Research Institute and Dr. Gary Poore of Museums Victoria Research Institute
- The publication includes dichotomous keys, diagnoses, illustrations, and photographs for families and genera
- Decapods are ecologically important as both predators and prey in marine environments
Entities
Institutions
- Australian Museum Research Institute
- Museums Victoria Research Institute