Gammarellidae

Common Names

Members of the Gammarellidae family are commonly referred to as "gammarellids" or "gammarelids." However, these names are not widely used and are often replaced by the scientific name.

Characteristics

Gammarellids are generally small, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length. They possess the typical amphipod body structure, characterized by a laterally compressed body with a distinct head, thorax, and abdomen. Some defining characteristics include:

• Antennae: Long and prominent, often exceeding body length.
• Eyes: Well-developed, usually located on the sides of the head.
• Mouthparts: Adapted for feeding on a variety of organic matter.
• Thoracic appendages: Modified for locomotion and grasping prey.
• Abdominal segments: Furnished with pleopods (swimming legs) and uropods (tail-like appendages).

Environments

Gammarellids are primarily found in marine habitats, inhabiting a wide range of environments, including:

• Coastal waters: Intertidal zones, rocky shores, and sandy beaches.
• Deep sea: Abyssal plains, hydrothermal vents, and cold seeps.
• Epifauna: Living on the surface of the seafloor.
• Infauna: Living within the seafloor sediment.
• Parasitism: Some species are parasitic on other marine organisms.

Ecological Roles

Gammarellids play important roles in marine ecosystems as:

• Decomposers: Feeding on dead organic matter and contributing to nutrient cycling.
• Prey: Serving as food for larger marine organisms.
• Predators: Consuming smaller invertebrates.
• Bioindicators: Indicating the health and quality of marine environments.

References

For further information and taxonomic details, please refer to the following resources:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• PubMed Central
• Journal of Crustacean Biology