Themisto australis is a species of hyperiid amphipod, a type of crustacean commonly found in the open ocean. These small, shrimp-like creatures play an important role in the marine food web, acting as both predators and prey.
Description & Characteristics
Themisto australis is a relatively large hyperiid amphipod, reaching a maximum size of around 25 millimeters in length. They possess a slender, elongated body with a prominent head and a pair of large, compound eyes. Their bodies are typically translucent, allowing for camouflage within the open ocean environment.
Habitat and Occurrence
Themisto australis is primarily found in the pelagic zone of the ocean, the vast expanse of open water far from the coast. Their distribution extends across both the and zones, making them a ubiquitous presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Themisto australis belongs to the Class: Malacostraca, Order: Amphipoda, and Family: Hyperiidae. This classification places it within a group of diverse and ecologically important crustaceans that inhabit a wide range of marine environments.
Feeding
Themisto australis is a carnivorous species, feeding on a variety of small organisms in the open ocean, including plankton, copepods, and other small invertebrates. They are considered an important link in the marine food web, helping to control the populations of their prey and providing food for larger predators.
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