Dwarf Copepod [Oithona nana]
Description
Oithona nana, commonly known as the Dwarf Copepod, is a tiny marine copepod that is widespread in the world's oceans. It has a small, transparent body with a size of about 1 mm. As a part of the zooplankton, it feeds mainly on phytoplankton and small organic particles. Its distinguishing feature is its small size and characteristic swimming pattern; it swims in short, rapid jerks.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Copepods
Copepoda
|
| Order |
Calanoida
Calanoida
|
| Family |
Eucalanidae
Eucalanidae
|
| Genus |
Dwarf Copepods
Eucalanus
|