Austruca
Austruca is a genus of marine isopods in the family Idoteidae. The genus contains a single species, Austruca tridens, which is endemic to Australia. It is a large isopod, reaching up to 50 millimeters in length, with a distinctive, spiny body. Its common name is the “three-pronged idotea” due to the three prominent spines on its head. This species is an important part of the marine ecosystem as a detritivore, playing a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter.
Characteristics
Austruca tridens is easily recognized by its distinctive morphology. Its body is elongated and flattened dorsoventrally, with a segmented exoskeleton. The head bears three prominent spines, two lateral and one anterior, which give the isopod its common name. Its antennae are long and segmented, and its eyes are large and well-developed. The pereopods (walking legs) are robust and adapted for crawling along the seabed. The pleopods (swimmerets) are flattened and used for swimming.
Habitat and Distribution
Austruca tridens is endemic to the waters of Australia, inhabiting intertidal and subtidal zones. It is commonly found in rocky areas, seagrass meadows, and kelp forests. This isopod is known to be tolerant of a range of salinity and temperature conditions.
Ecology
Austruca tridens is a detritivore, feeding mainly on decaying organic matter, including algae, seagrass, and animal carcasses. It is also known to occasionally scavenge on live prey. Its role as a detritivore is essential for the decomposition of organic matter in the marine ecosystem, contributing to nutrient cycling.