Spiny hopper [Ectinosomella spinifera]
Description
The Spiny hopper, scientifically known as Ectinosomella spinifera, is a species of marine copepod found in the Atlantic Ocean. It is distinguished by its elongated, slender shape and small size of about 0.6 mm. The females are usually larger than the males. They are benthic organisms, inhabiting the sediment surface of coastal and estuarine areas. Their behavior includes hopping on the sediment surface, hence their common name 'Spiny hopper'. They are characterized by the presence of spines on their body, particularly on their first antennae and the furcal rami.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Arthropods
Arthropoda
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Copepods
Copepoda
|
| Order |
Harpacticoida
Harpacticoida
|
| Family |
Ectinosomatidae
Ectinosomatidae
|
| Genus |
Ectinosomella
Ectinosomella
|