Question 1

Why is a sand dollar called a sand dollar?

Accepted Answer

A sand dollar's round, flat body is its skeleton, called a "test." When a sand dollar dies and washes ashore, its soft parts decay, leaving the white test. People named them "sand dollars" because they look like old coins.

Question 2

What is inside a sand dollar?

Accepted Answer

Sand dollars have a five-part jaw, a digestive system, a nerve ring, and reproductive organs. After death, their soft tissues decompose, leaving the hard skeleton. Dry sand dollars may rattle due to loose internal parts.

Question 3

What kills sand dollars?

Accepted Answer

Crabs and seagulls are predatory threats to sand dollars. They may carry sand dollars in their mouths and break them on rocks to consume their internal parts.

Question 4

How Do Sand Dollars Die?

Accepted Answer

Sand dollars can live up to 10 years, but predators (cod, flounder, sheepshead, and haddock) and environmental factors can cause them to die.

Question 5

Are sand dollars rare?

Accepted Answer

No, sand dollars are common and found worldwide. It's important to leave them in their natural habitat because they play a role in the ocean ecosystem, and disturbing them can be harmful.

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