Blue copepod [Labidocera aestiva]
Description
Labidocera aestiva, commonly known as the blue copepod, is a marine species known for its distinct blue coloration. This planktonic copepod inhabits tropical and subtropical waters around the world. It plays a significant role in the marine food chain, feeding on phytoplankton and serving as a primary food source for larger organisms. The species displays sexual dimorphism, with males being smaller than females.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Copepods
Copepoda
|
| Order |
Calanoida
Calanoida
|
| Family |
Arietellidae
Arietellidae
|
| Genus |
Labidocera
Labidocera
|