The Blackbar Soldierfish Isopod or Anilocra myripristis is a species of parasitic isopod crustacean. It is a member of the family Cymothoidae, which includes a variety of fish parasites. Anilocra myripristis is notable for its distinctive black bars and its parasitic lifestyle, which involves attaching itself to its host fish.
Description & Characteristics
The Blackbar Soldierfish Isopod is a small, flattened isopod that can reach up to 15 millimeters in length. Its body is typically a mottled brown or grey, and it is characterized by distinctive black bars that run along its body. The head of the isopod is relatively large and bears a pair of prominent antennae. The body is segmented and flattened, with the abdomen curled underneath the thorax. These features help it attach to its host fish.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Blackbar Soldierfish Isopod is found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. It is a common parasite of soldierfish (Myripristis spp.), particularly the Blackbar Soldierfish (Myripristis jacobus), and can be found in a variety of marine zones, including reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds. It is commonly found at depths of 1 to 40 meters.
Taxonomy
The species Anilocra myripristis belongs to the family Cymothoidae, within the order Isopoda and class Malacostraca. The order Isopoda is a diverse group that includes a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial crustaceans. The family Cymothoidae is a group of isopods that are primarily parasitic on fish.
Feeding
The Blackbar Soldierfish Isopod is a parasitic isopod that feeds on the blood and mucus of its host fish. It attaches itself to the host using its strong claws and feeds by puncturing the skin with its mouthparts. The isopod can cause significant damage to the host fish, which can include tissue damage, anemia, and even death. This feeding habit makes it a significant concern for the health of its host fish population.
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