Crustaceans come in many sizes and forms and are some of the most common creatures that you will find on the shore, in your fishing net and in the seafood section of your local market. This guide has been put together by Museum Victoria, Melbourne, as a reference for the identification of a few (about 100) of the thousands of species of marine crustaceans known to exist in southern Australia.

Crustaceans are, like insects, arthropods. That is, they have a tough external skeleton and jointed legs. Most live in marine environments but a few are found in rivers, streams or on land.

You are probably familiar with many of the groups of crustaceans described in this guide. Some however are less well known and thanks to the spectacular photographs, their beauty can be shared with you.

Feedback and queries should be sent to the Discovery Centre at Museum Victoria.
Please note, the Discovery Centre can help you only with questions about crustaceans from southeastern Australia. It can not advise on the care of pet hermit crabs or on crustaceans from other regions.