Copepod
Copepod
Copepod (/ˈkoʊpɪpɒd/; from the Greek κόπος, kópos, "oar" and πούς, pous, "foot") is a group of small crustaceans found in the sea and nearly every freshwater habitat. They are a major component of the zooplankton that drifts within large bodies of water.
Etymology
The term "Copepod" originates from the Greek words κόπος (kópos), meaning "oar" or "paddle", and πούς (pous), meaning "foot". This refers to the oar-like structure of the copepod's legs, which are used for swimming.
Description
Copepods are typically 1 to 2 millimeters long, with a teardrop-shaped body and large antennae. Despite their small size, they are known for their rapid escape response, which is among the fastest in the animal kingdom. They have a complex life cycle with a number of stages, and can reproduce both sexually and asexually.
Classification
Copepods belong to the subphylum Crustacea and the class Copepoda. They are further divided into ten orders, including Calanoida, Cyclopoida, and Harpacticoida, among others.
Ecological Role
Copepods play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems. They are a primary food source for many larger animals, including fish and whales. Additionally, they help to recycle nutrients in the water, contributing to primary production.
Related Terms
- Crustacean: A large, diverse group of arthropods, including crabs, lobsters, shrimps, and barnacles, in addition to copepods.
- Zooplankton: The group of small and microscopic animals that drift in large bodies of water, including oceans and freshwater systems.
- Antennae: Appendages found in pairs on the heads of insects, crustaceans, and some other arthropods.
- Subphylum: A rank in the biological classification system, below phylum and above class.
- Class: A rank in the biological classification system, below phylum and above order.
- Order: A rank in the biological classification system, below class and above family.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Copepod
- Wikipedia's article - Copepod
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