Siphonostomatoida
Siphonostomatoida is an order of copepods, small crustaceans found in a variety of marine environments. They are highly diverse, with over 3,500 species described, and play crucial roles in marine ecosystems as both predators and prey.
Common Names
Siphonostomatoid copepods are often referred to simply as "siphonostomatoids," although more specific common names may be used for certain groups within the order. For example, some parasitic species are known as "fish lice" or "sea lice" due to their association with fish hosts.
Characteristics
Siphonostomatoids are characterized by a number of distinctive features, including:
- A siphon-like mouth, which gives the order its name (siphonostomatoid = siphon mouth).
- A reduced or absent rostrum (a projection on the head).
- Maxillipeds (mouthparts) adapted for grasping or feeding.
- A wide variety of body shapes and sizes, ranging from microscopic to several millimeters in length.
Environments
Siphonostomatoids are found in a wide range of marine environments, including:
- The open ocean (pelagic zone).
- Coastal waters.
- Estuaries.
- Intertidal areas.
Many species are parasitic, attaching to a variety of hosts, such as fish, invertebrates, and even whales. Free-living siphonostomatoids, however, are important members of the zooplankton, feeding on phytoplankton and other small organisms.
References
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