Dosimetrilla

Dosimetrilla is a genus of small, deep-sea crustaceans belonging to the order Amphipoda. These amphipods are characterized by their unique morphology and their adaptation to life in the abyssal and hadal zones of the ocean, often found in trenches and at extreme depths.

The name "dosimetrilla" likely refers to their small size and perhaps their density, as they are typically found on or within soft sediments. They are detritivores, feeding on organic matter that sinks to the seafloor. Like many deep-sea organisms, dosimetrilla have likely evolved specialized sensory organs to navigate and find food in the absence of light. Their life cycle and reproductive strategies in these extreme environments are areas of ongoing scientific research.

The genus dosimetrilla was first described in the early 20th century, and since then, several species have been identified, primarily from expeditions to the Pacific Ocean. Their discovery and study are crucial for understanding the biodiversity and ecological processes of the deep ocean, one of the least explored habitats on Earth. Further research aims to clarify their phylogenetic relationships within the amphipod order and their specific roles in the deep-sea food web.