Final answer:
Eating lobster or crab claws means consuming the muscles attached to the exoskeleton of these crustaceans, which are capable of movement thanks to the apodemes that serve as the site for muscle attachment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you eat lobster or crab claws, you are consuming the muscles within their exoskeletons. These claws contain apodemes, which are ingrowths to which the muscles attach. The muscles in crustacean claws are responsible for their movement, including the opening and closing of the claw. This mechanical process is akin to a lever system, with the fulcrum being the joint of the claw, and the apodemes being the site where muscle contractions enable this movement. Crustaceans, which include not only lobsters and crabs but also shrimp, krill, and woodlice, have a diverse range of adaptations that allow them to thrive in various environments. Their hard exoskeleton shields their soft tissues and provides attachment sites for muscles, demonstrating the complex anatomy that allows these creatures to interact with their surroundings and become a valued food source for humans.