Caligidae
Caligidae is a family of parasitic copepods in the order Siphonostomatoida, commonly known as sea lice. They are external parasites of marine fishes and comprise several genera, most notably Caligus and Lepeophtheirus, with numerous described species worldwide.
Members of Caligidae are small crustaceans with a compact cephalothorax and a tapered abdomen. They attach
The life cycle of caligids is multi-stage. It begins with two free-swimming naupliar stages, followed by a
Ecology and economic importance: Caligids infect a wide range of marine fishes and are particularly significant
Taxonomy and distribution: Caligidae is cosmopolitan, occurring in temperate and tropical seas. The family includes dozens