Abstract
Horseshoe crabs (Limulidae) are ancient superheroes still walking our beaches today. Besides being a favored prey item for many fish, birds, and sea turtles, pharmaceutical companies use the horseshoe crab's unique blue blood to ensure intravenous drugs are free of harmful bacteria. Historically, horseshoe crabs thrived along Florida's extensive shoreline, but population estimates are lacking. Comprehensive surveys across all coastal habitats by paid faculty or staff are financially and logistically impossible. To address data gaps and better inform fishery managers, collaborators created the Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch program. Intricacies of this program are described, with particular emphasis on Hernando County's training regimen. This case study can inform those interested in using effective citizen science programs to answer questions where volunteer involvement may supersede available funding limitations.
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