The American horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus, is an ancient marine arthropod with a lineage that goes back 440 million years. It is an important species for both its pivotal place in the ecosystem and for its valuable use in everyday human health; biomedical manufacturers and conservationists alike have a vested interest in making sure this species continues to thrive and flourish. As stewards of the environment, we have a responsibility to preserve, protect and strive to achieve balance between our need for this valuable material and the livelihood of the animal that provides it. In this presentation, we’ll discuss how these animals experience challenges in and out of their natural habitat and also review the significance of their remarkable blue blood to human health and the innovative technology that further safeguards this species and assures the sustainability of this important resource.