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The hardy creature survived the catostrophe that killed the dinosaurs. But mankind may do it in. The horeshoe crab is one of the oldest and hardiest species on the planet and appears to be scarce in the shallow waters around Florida. Horseshoe crabs are small, 3-4 pound marine animals (actually more closely related to spiders and other anthropods than crabs). Scientists are concerned, not only because of the animal's many uses for humans, but also are concerned that the problem may be leaving a hole in the food chain. The horseshoe crab contributes to medicine: sutures that dissolve by themselves; tests for bacteria used on prosthetic devices; potential cancer treatment, and many other uses. (Complete article in the Orlando Sentinel, Jun 28, 1998)
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