tantulocarids
Tantulocarids are a group of small, parasitic crustaceans that belong to the infraclass Tantulocarida within the Maxillopoda. They are characterized by a unique parasitic life cycle and a distinctive body plan. Tantulocarids are endoparasites, meaning they live inside their host. Their hosts are typically other crustaceans, including copepods, amphipods, and cumaceans.
The adult tantulocarid, also known as the tantulus larva, is the parasitic stage. It has a sac-like
Reproduction in tantulocarids is complex. The tantulus larva develops through several molts, eventually reaching a non-parasitic,
Tantulocarids are found in marine environments worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea. Despite