What is the process called when most crustaceans shed their exoskeleton?

The process by which most crustaceans shed their exoskeleton is known as molting. During molting, the crustacean's body produces a new, larger exoskeleton beneath the old one, which is then shed in order to allow for growth. This is a crucial stage in their life cycle, as the exoskeleton does not expand—hence, molting is necessary for the creature to increase in size.

The old exoskeleton is usually hard and provides protection to the crustacean. However, once it is shed, the organism is temporarily vulnerable until the new exoskeleton hardens. This cycle occurs multiple times throughout their lives and is essential for growth, development, and even reproduction in some species.

Calcium absorption, while important in the overall development of crustaceans, primarily occurs in the context of building and strengthening the exoskeleton rather than shedding it. Metamorphosis refers to a significant change in form or structure that some animals go through, which is more common in insects and amphibians than in crustaceans. Shell growth is a term that might suggest the gradual increase in an organism's exoskeleton over time but does not specifically denote the shedding process that occurs during molting.