Clean Ocean Advocate, June 2008
The April Creature was the Horseshoe Crab. The Horseshoe Crab is a unique creature that pre-dates most other species on the planet. Many species depend on horseshoe crabs, such as migratory shorebirds that use horseshoe crab eggs as an important food source, and humans. An extract of the horseshoe crab’s blood is used by the pharmaceutical and medical industries to ensure injectable medication is free of bacterial contamination. Congratulations to Sloan Sawhill of Egg Harbor City, NJ, for being selected from a pool of correct entries.
June Creature: This species is usually found in the nearshore coastal waters and bays, but moves offshore to depths of 100 to 500 feet of water in the fall and winter months. This species uses its field of vision, shape, and coloration to help it catch prey. Unlike other similar looking species, this species will swim into the water column and chase prey to the surface. For a chance to win a COA T-shirt, submit your guess by mail, or fax (18 Hartshorne Dr., Suite 2, Highlands, NJ 07732; 732-872-8041), or by using the online form below.
The Coastal Creature Feature winner will be announced in the August newsletter.
