Lepadidae is a family of marine crustaceans commonly known as barnacles. They are characterized by their hard, calcareous shells and are typically found attached to various surfaces, including rocks, ships, and even other animals. Barnacles are filter feeders, using their specialized appendages to capture plankton and other small particles from the water. These organisms are sessile, meaning they remain fixed in one place throughout their adult life. Lepadidae species are often studied for their unique reproductive strategies and their role in marine ecosystems. They can also serve as bioindicators, helping scientists assess the health of marine environments.