\Lim`u*loi"de*a\ (l[i^]m`[-u]*loi"d[-e]*[.a]), n. pl.
[NL. See {Limulus}, and {-oid}.] (Zo["o]l.)
An order of Merostomata, including among living animals the
genus Limulus, with various allied fossil genera, mostly of
the Carboniferous period. Called also {Xiphosura}.
Note: There are six pairs of leglike organs, surrounding the
      mouth, most of which terminate in claws; those of the
      first pair (probably mandibles) are the smallest; the
      others have the basal joints thickened and spinose, to
      serve as jaws, while the terminal joints serve as legs.
      This group is intermediate, in some characteristics,
      between crustaceans and certain arachnids (scorpions),
      but the respiration is by means of lamellate gills
      borne upon the five posterior abdominal appendages,
      which are flat and united in pairs by their inner
      edges, and are protected by the lidlike anterior pair,
      which also bear the genital orifices.