The subphylum Mandibulata constitutes one of the major subdivisions of the phylum Arthropoda, alongside Chelicerata.

The name "Mandibulata" refers to the mandibles, a modified pair of limbs used in food processing, the presence of which are characteristic of most members of the group.

The mandibulates are divided between the extant groups Myriapoda (millipedes & centipedes, among others) and Pancrustacea (including insects and crustaceans, among others).

Molecular phylogenetic studies suggest that the living arthropods are related as shown in the cladogram below.

[1][2][3] Pancrustacea (crustaceans and hexapods) Myriapoda (centipedes, millipedes, and allies) Chelicerata (sea spiders, horseshoe crabs, and arachnids)