What classification do crustaceans fall under?

Crustaceans are classified under the group known as Crustacea, which is part of the larger phylum Arthropoda. This classification encompasses a diverse range of aquatic and terrestrial organisms, including crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and barnacles. Organisms in this group are characterized by their hard exoskeletons, jointed legs, and typically two pairs of antennae, which differentiate them from other arthropods like insects and arachnids.

The name "Crustacea" itself reflects this unique grouping, distinguishing these organisms from insects (Insecta), which have a three-part body and three pairs of legs, arachnids (Arachnida), which include spiders and scorpions with eight legs, and myriapods (Myriapoda), which have many legs (like centipedes and millipedes). All of these groups are part of the broader animal kingdom but belong to separate classifications based on their anatomical and physiological traits. Hence, the correct classification for crustaceans is indeed Crustacea.