How did crustaceans evolve?

Answer 1

Crustaceans evolved from early arthropod ancestors during the Cambrian period, approximately 500 million years ago. They diversified through a series of adaptive radiations, leading to various forms such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp, which adapted to different ecological niches in marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments. Key evolutionary developments include specialized appendages for feeding and locomotion, as well as complex life cycles involving larval stages. Their success can be attributed to their hard exoskeleton, which provides protection, and their ability to exploit a wide range of habitats.