Balanus balanoides is a scientific name used to refer to the common barnacle. This crustacean is commonly found along rocky coastlines and is a member of the family Balanidae, which includes several other species of barnacles. Synonyms for the name Balanus balanoides vary depending on the taxonomic classification system used and include Chthamalus stellatus, Balanus candidus, and Balanus concavus. Some scientists have also referred to the common barnacle as Semibalanus balanoides or Megabalanus balanoides. Despite the variation in scientific names, the common barnacle remains an important ecological player in oceanic ecosystems and plays a vital role in coastal ecology.