tetrophthalmus

Tetrophthalmus is a genus of marine crustaceans belonging to the order Copepoda. These small, planktonic animals are typically found in the open ocean and are an important part of marine food webs. Members of this genus are characterized by their elongated bodies and distinctive, often large, paired eyes located on the dorsal side of their cephalothorax. This prominent eye structure gives the genus its name, derived from Greek words meaning "four eyes."

The feeding habits of Tetrophthalmus species vary, with some being herbivorous, consuming phytoplankton, while others are predatory, feeding on smaller zooplankton. They play a role in nutrient cycling within the ocean. Reproduction in Tetrophthalmus, like other copepods, involves the release of eggs, which then develop through several larval stages before reaching adulthood. Their distribution is widespread across various oceanic regions. Research on Tetrophthalmus contributes to our understanding of marine plankton dynamics and the broader ecological health of ocean ecosystems.