This Living Fossil May Have Saved Your Life

The video discusses the horseshoe crab, a species that has survived for millions of years but now faces threats from human activities. It highlights the ecological importance of horseshoe crabs, particularly in Delaware Bay, and their role in medical testing due to their unique blood properties. The development of a synthetic alternative, recombinant factor C, offers a more sustainable solution, but adoption has been slow. The video emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to protect this keystone species.

What adaptations have allowed horseshoe crabs to survive for almost half a billion years?

What are the main threats currently facing horseshoe crab populations?

Describe the significance of horseshoe crab eggs in the ecosystem.

How does the blood of horseshoe crabs contribute to medical advancements?

What challenges did Professor Ding face in her research on horseshoe crab blood?

What is recombinant factor C and how does it relate to horseshoe crabs?

Why is it important to protect horseshoe crabs and their habitats?