Irrotomissa

Irrotomissa is a genus of parasitic copepods belonging to the family Lerneidae. These marine crustaceans are characterized by their parasitic relationship with sea urchins and other echinoderms, often attaching themselves to their hosts' surfaces. The genus Irrotomissa was first described in the early 20th century and has since been the subject of various taxonomic and ecological studies.

Irrotomissa species exhibit a morphology adapted to ectoparasitism, with a flattened body and specialized mouthparts for feeding on host tissues and fluids. They typically have a small size, ranging from a few millimeters to about a centimeter in length. The life cycle involves multiple developmental stages, including free-swimming larvae that eventually settle onto a suitable host.

The distribution of Irrotomissa is primarily associated with temperate and tropical marine environments. They are often found in coastal areas where their host species are abundant. As parasites, they can influence the health and behavior of their hosts, although usually without causing significant harm.

Research on Irrotomissa contributes to understanding parasite-host dynamics, marine biodiversity, and the ecological roles of copepods in marine ecosystems. Identification of species within this genus relies on morphological features observed through microscopy, and ongoing studies aim to clarify their taxonomy and ecological significance.

Overall, Irrotomissa represents an important component of marine parasitic communities, illustrating the diversity and complexity of parasite relationships in oceanic environments.