Citizen Science
NYSMEA remains committed to citizen science; the collection and analysis of data relating to the natural world by members of the general public, typically in collaboration with professional scientists. This discipline not only aids scientific research across a spectrum of fields, from astronomy to zoology, but also provides a valuable form of outreach to students, teachers, and the public at large.
Plumb Beach Horseshoe Crab Molt Data Collecting
September 6th, 2025
Trip Leader Dr. Mark Botton and Dr. Lisa Jean Moore joined us for a great Horseshoe Crab molt collecting walk on Plumb Beach, Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Moore is the author of the book "Catch and Release" which is about horseshoe crabs and research in Jamaica Bay.
This year, we collected 90 molts, measured the carapaces, and determined the number of molts each individual Horseshoe Crab had shed and the age at which it molted. Join us for more of these events and help us table and share marine resources.
Click here for the data sheet.
Click here for the molt chart.
Click here for the lesson plan.
Click here for the research paper.
Center left: Dr. Mark Botton and Dr. Lisa Jean Moore; right: NYSMEA Treasurer Sarah Richards at center.
Left: NYSMEA member Lorri Tomeo and others listening to Dr. Booton's talk; center and right: recording data from the Horseshoe Crab molts.
Left and center: recording data from HSC molts; right: a group hug with Lisa Aprile, Lorrie Tomeo, Mirta Rinaldi of MENDULCINA and Paola Garcia.
Field trip attendees: Over 20 scientists and educators in attendance!