Oyster Copepod [Ceratothoa oestroides]
Description
Ceratothoa oestroides, commonly known as the Oyster Copepod, is a species of parasitic isopods that infest oysters. They are found in various parts of the world and are known for their unique body shape and color. They live inside the oyster, feeding on its tissues and fluids. Adult females are larger than males and can reach up to 3 cm in length. They have a broad, flat body with a shape that closely resembles that of their host shell.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Crustaceans
Malacostraca
|
| Order |
Isopods
Isopoda
|
| Family |
Cymothoidae
Cymothoidae
|
| Genus |
Ceratothoa
Ceratothoa
|