harpacticoid

Harpacticoida is an order of small crustaceans belonging to the subclass Copepoda. They are commonly found in marine and freshwater environments, inhabiting a wide range of habitats including sediments, plankton, and even as symbionts on other organisms. Harpacticoids are characterized by their elongated body, segmented appearance, and a pair of antennae that are typically shorter than those of other copepods.

These tiny invertebrates play a significant role in aquatic ecosystems. As detritivores and herbivores, they consume organic matter and algae, contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for larger animals such as fish and invertebrates. Their abundance and diversity make them important indicators of environmental health.

Harpacticoids exhibit a variety of life cycles and reproductive strategies. Many species reproduce sexually, with males transferring sperm to females. The females then lay eggs, which can be carried in egg sacs attached to their bodies or released into the water column. The development from egg to adult involves several larval stages, each with distinct morphological features. Due to their small size and widespread distribution, harpacticoids are extensively studied in marine biology, ecology, and oceanography.