Caragidae

Caragidae is a family of marine invertebrates belonging to the order Amphipoda. Amphipods are a diverse group of crustaceans characterized by their laterally compressed bodies and series of leg-like appendages. The Caragidae family is notable for its members' adaptations to life in sandy or muddy intertidal zones and shallow subtidal environments. They are often found burrowing in the sediment or associated with seagrass beds and macroalgal habitats.

Species within Caragidae typically exhibit a variety of feeding strategies, with many being detritivores, consuming organic matter found in the sediment. Others may be scavengers or even predators of smaller invertebrates. Their morphology often includes well-developed gnathopods, which are modified thoracic appendages used for grasping and manipulating food. The antennae are also prominent, aiding in sensory perception of their environment.

The distribution of Caragidae is widespread across temperate and tropical oceans. Research on this family has contributed to our understanding of benthic community structure, sediment dynamics, and the ecological roles that small crustaceans play in coastal ecosystems. While not as extensively studied as some other crustacean groups, Caragidae represent an important component of marine biodiversity. Further research continues to explore their specific ecological functions and evolutionary relationships within the broader amphipod phylogeny.